BusinessMirror October 30, 2025

THE Department of Finance (DOF) is leading a new global initiative aimed at protecting public assets of Southeast Asian nations from the impacts of natural disasters.

In a statement on Wednesday, the DOF said it is spearheading the Southeast Asia Disaster Risk Insurance Facility—Sovereign Asset and Fiscal Empowerment (SEADRIF-SAFE).

The initiative was agreed upon by member-countries of SEADRIF during its eighth technical meeting in Kyoto, Japan, earlier this month. Championed by the Philippines through the DOF, the SEADRIF-

SAFE will integrate disaster insurance directly into development projects financed by bilateral and multilateral partners.

“This ensures that critical public assets such as hospitals, schools, roads, and public buildings are financially protected, allowing governments to continue serving citizens even after disasters strike,” the DOF said.

When a disaster strikes, governments can also start rebuilding immediately since funds are already available, the DOF added.

By pooling risks at the regional level, member-countries can reduce insurance costs, expand coverage and accelerate recovery ef -

forts to make their communities safer and more resilient.

“Disasters are not just national problems—they are regional challenges that demand global solutions. Through SEADRIF-SAFE, which the Philippines champions, we are taking a proactive and united step to protect what truly matters: our people and the public assets they rely on,” Finance Secretary Ralph G. Recto said.

Moreover, the initiative supports the DOF’s ongoing disaster risk financing efforts in the Philippines under the National Indemnity Insurance Program (NIIP).

This ensures that government assets, particularly school build -

ings, are protected against disasters through a comprehensive insurance coverage provided by the Government Service Insurance System. It also complements the country’s upcoming ASEAN+3 Finance Process Co-Chairmanship with Japan in 2026, which will prioritize regional disaster and climate resilience. Further, the DOF is leading the establishment of enhanced climate-disaster risk finance and insurance mechanisms for the Philippines in partnership with the Global Shield Secretariat and Institute for Climate and Sustainable Cities (ICSC). Reine Juvierre S.

PESO BACK AT ₧

PROFIT-TAKING NOTED

By Reine Juvierre S. Alberto @reine_alberto

THE Philippine peso rebounded on Wednesday, back at P58 levels after slipping past P59, as profittaking persisted and seasonal dollar inflows picked up ahead of Undas and the start of holiday-related spending.

See

By Reine Juvierre S. Alberto

T@reine_alberto

HE Philippines’s growing Generation Alpha population—the highest proportion in Asia—could be a domestic edge boosting consumption growth, according to BMI, a Fitch Solutions Company.

In a commentary on Wednesday, BMI said the Philippines will have the highest proportion of Gen Alpha among major Asian markets, consisting of 27 percent of the total population in 2030. Gen Alpha are those born between 2010 to 2024, and associated with tech-savviness, having

See “Booster,” A2

By Lorenz S. Marasigan

THE Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) has established a Technical Working Group (TWG) of independent experts to scrutinize all flood control projects planned for the 2027 national budget.

Public Works Secretary Vince Dizon told reporters on Wednesday that this initiative will help the agency address the widespread corruption in flood control infrastructure planning.

“When we studied this, one of the things we discovered is that many of our flood control problems stem from a lack of planning,” Dizon said. “Many flood

control projects, when you ask where the plan is, don’t even have one. Basically, these flood control projects were not planned or thought through. To be quite frank, these flood control projects were made just to profit.”

He noted that the working group will be tasked to review all flood control projects lined up for 2027, adding that “no flood control project will be included in the 2027 budget unless it receives approval from this group of experts.”

As of Wednesday, the panel of flood control experts include the following: Alfredo Mahar Francisco Lagmay, Director of the University of the Philippines (UP) Nationwide Operational Assessment of

of Civil Engineering; and Department of Environment and Natural Resources Undersecretary Carlo Primo David, who heads the Water Resources Management Office. Dizon said the TWG has already begun meeting over the past month and will continue working as the government prepares the 2027 National Expenditure Program (NEP), which begins as early as February.

The group faces a tight deadline, with less than four months to develop initial plans, he noted.

“I’m asking this group to vet the plans. And if they say the plans are good and the plans will have a positive effect on flood mitigation in various areas, then we will put

Hazards (NOAH) Center; Guillermo Tabios III of the UP Institute

local governments across the country, gender-responsive planning and budgeting have helped integrate peace and security concerns into local policies, ensuring that women are not only beneficiaries, but leaders and partners in peacebuilding,” she said.

Pangandaman added that the conference bears connections to several historical milestones, it being 45 years since the adoption on Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women, 30 years since the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action and the Gender and Development Budget Policy was introduced as the Women’s Budget, 25 years since the landmark United Nations Security Council Resolution 1325, and 15 years since the country’s National Action Plan on Women, Peace, and Security.

“Each of these milestones reminds us that peace and equality are not simply aspirations written in policy, but principles fought for and lived by women who have long stood as the front lines of peace building, conflict resolution, and recovery,” she said.

Last year’s conference gathered government, international, and civil society leaders to review progress on the WPS agenda since United Nations Security Council Resolution (UNSCR) 1325, which promotes women’s inclusion in peace, security, and decision-making.

The Philippines ranked 105th out of 163 countries in the 2025 Global Peace Index, climbing six places from last year, according to the Institute for Economics and Peace.

Comelec halts national voter registration for Undas

By Justine Xyrah Garcia

THECommission on Elections will suspend voter registration activities nationwide from 12 noon of October 30 (Thursday) until November 2, 2025 (Sunday) in observance of Undas.

In a recent social media post, the poll body said operations will pause during the long weekend to allow personnel and the public to take part in the traditional observance of the All Saints’ and All Souls’ Days. Voter registration will resume on

₧58 level…

Continued from A1

profit-taking, locking in gains before selling the currency after the exchange rate breached the P59 level on Tuesday.

“The peso’s recovery today, after breaching 59 PHP/USD yesterday, looks like a technical rebound as some investors used the weaker level to sell dollars,” Moody’s Analytics economist

November 3, 2025 (Monday).

“Together with the whole nation, we honor the memory of those who have passed away. Through prayer, offering, and reflection, we keep their spirit alive in our hearts. May their souls find peace and light,” the Comelec said.

Sarah Tan told BusinessMirror

Michael L. Ricafort, chief economist at Rizal Commercial Banking Corporation, said the peso reaching the P59-mark may have triggered some healthy profit-taking or stop loss orders, as an “effective way” to discourage any undue speculation.

Sun Life Investment Management and Trust Corporation President Mike D. Enriquez told BusinessMirror that the correction was a combination

The temporary suspension comes as the commission continues efforts to expand its registration network.

Comelec Chairman George Erwin M. Garcia earlier disclosed their plans to open additional special registration sites in major cities and provincial capitals through the Register Anywhere Program, which allows applicants to sign up regardless of their place of residence. (Related: https://businessmirror.com. ph/2025/10/20/more-specialvoter-registration-sites-toopen-soon-comelec/).

The poll body also intends to set up registration areas in airports, hospitals, and call centers,

of some profit-taking and possible conversion of foreign investors of their US dollars to Philippine peso for their Maynilad IPO payment.

“We also expect remittances from overseas Filipino workers [OFWs] to help stabilize the Philippine peso towards December,” Enriquez said.

According to Ricafort, the recent depreciation of the peso made it more attractive for some OFWs and other US dollar earners to convert their greenbacks ahead of the Undas weekend and holiday-related spending.

Bank of the Philippine Islands lead economist Jun Neri said the peso depreciated due to a combination of rising oil prices, the central bank’s dovish stance and net foreign selling in the local stock market.

With inflation at manageable levels, Neri said the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) might see the recent depreciation as “tolerable.”

“It might not be a concern from their perspective as long as the inflation forecast for the next two years remains within the target,” Neri said.

“Also, allowing the Peso to weaken might be a strategic move for them since a weaker Peso could support growth and household spending through its impact on remittances,” Neri added.

Technical indicators suggest the local currency might be in oversold territory, which means

some of which will operate beyond regular hours. These sites will process applications for registration, reactivation, transfer, correction of entries, and issuance of voter’s certifications.

Based on the latest data, Comelec has processed a total of 144,907 voter applications nationwide.

Of this number, 13,879 are new Sangguniang Kabataan registrants aged 15 to 17, while 37,122 are new regular applicants aged 18 and above.

The poll body is targeting around 1.4 million new registrants ahead of the Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections (BSKE) in November next year.

a correction or a sideways movement is possible, Neri said.

A continued appreciation of the peso would depend on the BSP’s intervention or smoothing any volatility, Ricafort said.

“Seasonal increase in OFW remittances and conversion would also help support the peso seasonally towards the end of the year,” Ricafort added.

Economists also cited expectations that the US Federal Reserve would cut interest rates, which could weaken the dollar and, in turn, support emerging market currencies, such as the peso.

Enriquez said the peso against the dollar may stabilize near the P58.50 level as the Fed is anticipated to adjust its policy rates lower.

“The Fed is expected to cut rates amid better-than-expected inflation print in the US. Rate cuts from the US side may cause the dollar to slightly weaken against the peso,” Reinielle Matt Erece, economist at Oikonomia Advisory and Research, Inc. told BusinessMirror

Despite all these factors that could strengthen the peso, Erece said developments in the political and economic landscape, such as anti-corruption reforms, investment or business reforms, are important in stopping the bleeding of capital from the country.

“Too much capital outflows, e.g., foreigners selling off shares, investments pulling out, may be the primary cause of the falling peso,” Erece added.

been born in a highly digitalized world and exposed to technology at a young age.

This generation already accounts for a quarter of the global population, seen totaling around 2 billion in 2025, which is an “important demographic of the global consumer market,” BMI said.

“Parents of Gen Alphas are predominantly Millennials and older Gen Zs, whose spending habits and attitudes will set the foundation of how Gen Alpha evolve into the market,” BMI said.

This “demographic sweet spot,” according to Finance Secretary Ralph G. Recto, is the country’s “greatest advantage” to sustain its economic momentum.

With a median age of 25 years old, the Philippines has the youngest workforce in the world. “The entry of millions of young Filipinos into the workforce will fuel our industries, drive innovation, and shape the country’s future,” Recto said earlier. Trailing the Philippines in terms of high Gen Alpha proportions are Malaysia and Vietnam, which will make up 21 percent of the total population in both markets.

Meanwhile, Japan and South Korea will have the smallest proportion of Gen Alpha consumers, at 12 percent and 11 percent, respectively, due to their aging population and low birth rates.

Across regions, Asia will have the biggest population of Gen Alphas, naturally driven by its large population.

By 2030, Asia will have a Gen Alpha population of about 935.7 million, making up almost half of the global Gen Alpha population. However, this will slightly decline to 912.2 million by 2050, as Mainland China and South Korea face dropping birth rates and shrinking family sizes.

Gen Alpha will be the highest in India and Indonesia, consisting of 23 percent of both markets, while Mainland China Gen Alpha will make up 16 percent of the market’s population in 2030.

Zooming out, Asia will be followed by Sub-Saharan Africa with 512.9 million in Gen Alphas, Middle East and North Africa with 166 million, Latin America (148 million), Central and Eastern Europe (98 million), North America (66 million) and Europe (63 million).

those plans in the 2027 budget,” Dizon said.

Dizon also indicated that procurement processes will be tightened to prevent contractors with questionable records from securing projects, specifically mentioning firms that

have been linked to substandard and ghost work.

“We will make procurement of these projects stricter to ensure there are no more Discaya, no more Wawao, no more Syms,” he said, referring to contractors implicated in corruption scandals.

The Philippines shared efforts to review and adapt libel and cyber-libel laws, while the EU emphasized the need for a safe and enabling environment for journalists.

From GSP+ to FTA DURING the Duterte presidency (2016–2022), the EU was one of the most outspoken critics of the Philippine government’s war on drugs.

The bloc repeatedly warned that failure to address human rights concerns could jeopardize the Philippines’s trade privileges under the Generalized Scheme of Preferences Plus (GSP+), which grants tariff-free access to EU markets in exchange for compliance with 27 international conventions.

This year’s meeting marked a turning point. While GSP+ was mentioned, it appeared only in the context of labor rights, as both sides committed to protecting freedoms of association and decent work.

The Philippines and the EU have now begun formal negotiations for a Free Trade Agreement (FTA), which would replace GSP+ with a more comprehensive and reciprocal economic framework.

The meeting also addressed a wide range of human rights concerns, including: Protection of human rights defenders and civil society from harassment and red tagging

• Reforms to libel and cyber-libel laws

• Cooperation on enforced disappearances and child sexual exploitation online Promotion of business and human rights, labor protections, and anti-trafficking efforts

Continued commitment to abolishing the death penalty and strengthening safeguards against torture

The next Subcommittee Meeting is scheduled for 2026 in Manila, where both sides are expected to review progress and deepen cooperation on their shared commitment to human rights, justice, and democratic governance.

Basilan situation normalizes

THE Army (PA) said Wednesday that tension in Tipo-Tipo, Basilan, reportedly caused by “rido” or clan feud, has subsided, with military and police units helping secure the area.

“Wala na [There is none now], but our forces are still securing the area,” the Army spokesperson, Col. Louie Dema-ala, said in a message to the Philippine News Agency when asked for updates on the incident that affected the community.

Dema-ala also said the 45th Infantry Battalion, under Joint Task Force Orion, is the PA unit helping secure the locality, along with other security troops, including those from the National Police (PNP).

In a separate statement, the acting PNP chief, Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr., said the force has intensified peacekeeping and investigative operations in Tipo-Tipo following the incident.

He also commended the swift coordination between PNP units, the Armed Forces (AFP), and local leaders, including the Moro Islamic Liberation Front, in restoring calm and protecting residents.

“The PNP remains steadfast in pursuing justice for the slain barangay official while ensuring that peace is sustained through continuous dialogue and law enforcement cooperation,” Nartatez said.

The AFP earlier confirmed that the situation in Tipo-Tipo stemmed from a rido-related conflict between community groups.

“The incident is now under control, with the Coordinating Committee on the Cessation of Hostilities and the provincial government of Basilan facilitating dialogue and deescalation,” it said.

The AFP, through its Western Mindanao Command and Joint Task Force Orion, said it continues to coordinate closely with the PNP, the Basilan Council of Elders, and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front leadership to restore normalcy and protect civilians.

“We urge the public to remain calm and continue supporting the peace process. The AFP remains committed to sustaining peace and stability in Basilan and across Mindanao through cooperation, trust, and shared responsibility,” it added.

Nartatez, meanwhile, said that the PNP has intensified peacekeeping and investigative operations in Tipo-Tipo following the successful de-escalation of a rido-related conflict that broke out on Wednesday.

Nartatez, in a statement, also commended the swift coordination between PNP units, the AFP, and local leaders, including the Moro Islamic Liberation Front, in restoring calm and protecting residents.

“The PNP remains steadfast in pursuing justice for the slain barangay official while ensuring that peace is sustained through continuous dialogue and law enforcement cooperation,” the acting PNP chief said.

Police units continue to secure key areas in Tipo-Tipo, conduct visibility patrols, and support ongoing investigations into the killing of Islamic teacher and barangay official Ustadz Nadzmi “Bahang” Tarahin which sparked the rido between two local groups.

“Right now, our coordination with the Armed Forces remains very close. Joint checkpoints and patrols are being conducted to maintain peace and order and to ensure the safety of our kababayan,” Nartatez said. He also lauded the efforts of Basilan’s Council of Elders and the local government for helping facilitate peace talks that ended the standoff between the two clans.

“This incident underscores the importance of unity among government forces and the community in rejecting violence and choosing reconciliation,” Nartatez added.

He also assured the public that law enforcement and peacebuilding efforts will continue in coordination with the AFP and partner stakeholders to maintain lasting security in Basilan. PNA with Rex Anthony Naval

Pagasa forecasts rainy Undas

PLANNING to visit the cemetery this All Saints Day and All Souls Day? Don’t forget to bring an umbrella!

The Philippine Atmospheric Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (Pagasa) released a special weather outlook for Undas 2025, sta ting that the northeast monsoon or amihan, an intertropical convergence zone (ITCZ), and a low pressure area will be the main weather systems affecting the country during this period.

The weather agency said that from Thursday until Friday, the northeast monsoon will bring cloudy skies and isolated light rain over Norther Luzon particularly Cagayan Valley. Meanwhile, an LPA may develop offshore east of the Visayas along with an ITCZ. Both systems are expected to bring mostly cloudy skies with scattered rain and thunderstorms over the Visayas, Mindanao, Metro Manila, Calabarzon (Cavite Batangas, Laguna, Rizal and Quezon), Mimaropa (Mindoro, Marinduque, Romblon and Palawan), Central Luzon, the rest of Cagayan Valley, La Union, and Pangasinan. The rest of Luzon will experience partly cloudy to cloudy weather with isolated rain showers or thunderstorms.

On Saturday (November 1), the LPA and the ITCZ will continue to produce cloudy

conditions with scattered rain and thunderstorms over the same areas Visayas, Metro Manila,Calabarzon (Cavite Batangas, Laguna, Rizal and Quezon), Mimaropa (Mindoro, Marinduque, Romblon and Palawan), Bicol Region, Aurora, and Zamboanga Peninsula. Cagayan Valley will see cloudy skies with rain, while Ilocos Region and the Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR) will have partly cloudy to cloudy weather with isolated light rain. The rest of the country may expect partly cloudy to cloudy skies with possible localized rain showers or thunderstorms.

On Sunday (November 2), Calabarzon (Cavite Batangas, Laguna, Rizal and Quezon), Mimaropa (Mindoro, Marinduque, Romblon and Palawan), Bicol Region, and Western Visayas will remain cloudy with scattered rain and isolated thunderstorms due to the LPA and the ITCZ. The northeast monsoon will bring cloudy skies with rain over Cagayan Valley, CAR, and Aurora, while Ilocos Region may have partly cloudy to cloudy weather with isolated light rain. The rest of the country could experience partly cloudy to cloudy skies with a chance of afternoon or evening rain showers or thunderstorms.

The LPA is less likely to develop into a tropical cyclone within the forecast period, Pagasa said. Jonathan L. Mayuga

ICI recommends filing of plunder, other charges vs Jinggoy, Joel, others

the scheme.

TBy Joel R. San Juan @jrsanjuan1573

HE Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI) has recommended the filing of plunder and other criminal and administrative charges against two incumbent senators and several other government officials for allegedly receiving kickbacks from flood control projects of the government.

In its interim Report and Recommendation signed by retired Supreme Court Associate Justice and ICI chairperson Andres Reyes, the commission named Sens. Joel Villanueva and Jinggoy Estrada, former Public Works Undersecretary Roberto Bernardo, former Ako Bicol Rep. Elizaldy “Zaldy” Co, Audit Commissioner Mario Lipana and former Caloocan Rep. Mary Mitzi “Mitch” Cajayon-Uy as among those who should be prosecuted for alleged violations of Articles 210212 of the Revised Penal Code (direct or indirect bribery and corruption of public officials) Sections 3(b) and 3(c) of Republic Act 3019 or the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act (corruption of public officers) and Section 2 of Republic Act 7080 (plunder).

The recommendation was based on the testimonies and sworn affidavits provided by former Department of Public Works and Highways engineers Henry Alcantara, Brice Hernandez, and Jaypee Mendoza during the ICI hearings on September 24 and September 29, 2025.

In his testimony Alcantara disclosed the details of a scheme where named members of the House and the Senate as well as a DPWH undersecretary, through a scheme, demanded for specific percentages from the budget of a proposed construction project in exchange for them to propose the same in the budget deliberations and proceedings of the House and the Senate.

Alcantara disclosed that about 20 percent to 30 percent of the total amount of the allocated funds for a certain project will be allocated for the project’s proponent.

While in their testimony, Hernandez and Mendoza disclosed the details of a scheme where the said members of the House and the Senate, as well as a DPWH Undersecretary, through a scheme, demanded for specific percentages from the budget of a proposed construction project in exchange for them to propose the same in the budget deliberations and proceedings of both chambers.

Hernandez disclosed that about 10 percent to 30 percent of the total amount of the allocated funds for a certain project is allocated for the project’s proponent.

The three witnesses identified Bernardo, Villanueva, Estrada, Co, Lipana and CajayonUy as among those who benefitted from

Alcantara testified that in 2022, Villanueva asked for a multipurpose building in the amount of P1.5 billion which was allowed but only for P600 million.

The senator was given projects under the 2023 unprogrammed allocations in the amount of P600 which were all flood control projects and 25 percent of the amount was given to him.

Alcantara claimed that he personally brought P150 million to a rest house at barangay Igulot, Bocaue, Bulacan and was left with a certain “Peng,” who works for Villanueva with the instructions to hand the same to him.

Hernandez and Mendoza corroborated Alcantara’s statement but claimed that based on their recollection, the latter personally gave the subject amount to Villanueva.

In the case of Estrada, Hernandez claimed that sometime in 2025, Estrada coordinated with Alcantara and informed the latter that he has P355 million worth of funds for allocation to fund flood control projects.

The same kickback rate for Estrada was supposedly agreed upon based on Hernandez testimony.

Hernandez indicated that a staff of Estrada identified as “Ms. Mina”, who was also a representative of WJ Construction, coordinated about the projects, one of which was a P75 million project awarded to the construction company.

Co, on the other hand, allegedly benefitted from 426 flood control projects from 2022 to 2025 amounting to a total of P35.024 billion.

Hernandez testified that cash loaded into boxes and pieces of luggage were delivered to Co between 2022 to 2025.

Rule of law

SENATE President Vicente Sotto III on Wednesday emphasized the importance of observing the due process of law, following the recommendation of the Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI) to the Ombudsman to file plunder, bribery, and corruption complaints against Senators Joel Villanueva and Jinggoy Estrada, among others.

This was said by Sotto when asked of the actions that the Senate will undertake should the Office of the Ombudsman pursue the recommendations of the Palace-created ICI.

Sotto added: “There are constitutional, legal and political issues to these investigations. And there will be as many opinions as there are lawyers. I would rather be prudent and follow the rule of law and avoid putting the Senate in the line of fire.”

“We have due process in law and a system of check and balance in the government to balance and protect the rights of individuals

and institutions as well,” he added. Villanueva reacted to the ICI recommendation that he is innocent, saying that his camp will await the action of the Ombudsman on the recommendation.

“Nevertheless, records of the Senate will show that I have been against flood control projects from the very beginning. I was the one who exposed and questioned these flood control projects that have not been implemented,” Villanueva said.

For his part, Estrada said he is ready to defend himself to prove his innocence.

In a statement, Estrada said: “Wala akong tinanggap na anumang pondong nakalaan para sa mga flood control projects, at kaya kong patunayan ito sa hukuman. Ang mga paratang laban sa akin ay pawang hearsay o batay lamang sa sabi-sabi.”

SC orders OCA to monitor filing of cases

IN a resolution issued on Tuesday, the Supreme Court en banc directed the Office of the Court Administrator (OCA) to monitor the filing of cases involving corruption in flood control and other infrastructure projects before the regional trials courts (RTCs).

The Court also said that special courts will be designated to exclusively hear and decide these cases once they are filed before the RTCs.

“In line with this initiative, the SC continues to implement reforms under the Plan for Judicial Innovations 2022-2027 [SPJI], including the development of eCourt PH and other digitalization projects aimed at enhancing efficiency, transparency, and accountability in the Judiciary,” the SC said in a statement.

It added that these reforms cover all court levels—the trial courts, the Court of Appeals, the Sandiganbayan, the Court of Tax Appeals, and the Supreme Court.

Broader investigation

LAWMAKERS from the House of Representatives’ Makabayan bloc described the ICI’s recommendations as “grossly insufficient” and called for a broader nvestigation in connection with the anomalous flood control projects.

In a joint statement, Party-list Reps. Antonio Tinio of ACT Teachers, Renee Louise Co of Kabataan and Sarah Jane Elago of Gabriela expressed their dissatisfaction with the ICI’s move to charge only Villanueva, Estrada, Co and three others considering “the massive scale and entrenched nature” of the flood control corruption scandal.

Tinio stressed that the pursuit of accountability must not stop with a “handful of names.”

“The fight for accountability cannot end with a handful of names. With so much

Group launches waste, pollution reduction campaign ahead of All Saints’ Day

TBy Jonathan L. Mayuga @jonlmayuga

HE EcoWaste Coalition, in collaboration with the Manila North Cemetery Administration, the Department of Public Services (DPS) Manila, and the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA), launched its annual campaign on Wednesday, calling for a garbage-free observance of All Souls’ Day and All Saints’ Day.

As millions of Filipinos visit their dead in various cemeteries in commemoration of All Souls’ Day and All Saints’ Day this year, EcoWaste Coalition, a waste and pollution watchdog, reminded “pilgrims” of their responsibilities to keep cemeteries clean.

MMDA said that historically, some 50 tons of garbage–equivalent to 12 truckloads—were collected from more than 20 cemeteries across Metro Manila before, during, and after the yearly observance of All Saints and All Souls Days.

This year’s Undas campaign, launched during a simple ceremony at the Manila North Cemetery, carries the theme “Bawas Basura at Polusyon sa Undas.” Manila North Cemetery is one of the

oldest and largest cemeteries in Metro Manila. It sits adjacent to La Loma, a public cemetery, each having a total area of 54 hectares.

Both cemeteries draw millions of Filipinos to visit their departed relatives. Annual visits begin as early as October 30 and end on November 2, with many considering it an opportunity for a family reunion.

The campaign’s launch brought together environmental advocates, youth groups, and beauty queens in a shared call for a cleaner and less wasteful observance of Undas. Participating groups included Miss Earth Foundation, Buklod Tao, and Buklod ng Kabataan, who joined the Coalition in urging families to celebrate with simplicity, mindfulness, and respect for both the departed and the environment.

Manila North Cemetery Director Daniel Tan welcomed the participants, while Manila City Mayor Francisco Domagoso delivered a brief message highlighting the city’s commitment to a greener and cleaner Undas.

Miss Earth representatives shared practical tips for a zero-waste Undas, encouraging visitors to bring reusable containers and tumblers, avoid single-use

plastics, and take their waste home for proper segregation and recycling.

An interpretative dance presentation by Buklod ng Kabataan of “Lupang Hinirang” and “Nag-iisang Mundo” by Bayang Barrios also showcased the youth’s creative role in environmental advocacy.

MMDA delivered a call to action for cleaner public spaces beyond Undas, while the EcoWaste Coalition closed the program with an appeal for individual and collective environmental responsibility.

“While we may not achieve a trashfree Undas overnight, we can all do our part to reduce waste and pollution,” said Aileen Lucero, National Coordinator of the EcoWaste Coalition. “Through small mindful actions, we can turn this annual observance into a more meaningful and environmentally responsible tradition.”

Ochie Tolentino, Zero Waste Campaigner of the EcoWaste Coalition, underscored the need for public discipline and preparation. “Let’s make this year’s Undas truly meaningful by being mindful of what we bring and what we leave behind,” Tolentino said. “Pack wisely, refuse disposables, and clean up before leaving the cemetery. These small acts reflect our care for both people and the planet.”

Common waste generated during Undas include single-use food and drink containers, plastic bags, sachets, water bottles, plastic flowers, and used candles, all of which can be prevented through simple, eco-friendly practices.

To guide the public, the Coalition reiterated its “Cemetiquette” or cemetery etiquette for a cleaner and less wasteful Undas:

n Clean responsibly: Clean up the tombs of your departed ones without burning or dumping trash by the sidewalk or on other people’s graves.

n Use lead-safe paints When repainting tombs, use lead-safe paints and avoid dry sanding or scraping surfaces that might be covered in lead paint.

n Pack wisely: Bring your own food and drinks in reusable containers. Bring only what you need to avoid wastage, and don’t leave leftovers behind.

n Reduce plastic waste: Avoid single-use items such as disposable plastic bags, water bottles, food containers, and cutlery.

n Keep it clean: Don’t litter and put your discards into the proper bins. If bins

evidence, there are many more who must be held liable—especially the higher officials, political patrons, and true masterminds behind the systemic corruption in flood control. This action is too little, too late,” Tinio said Elago echoed this sentiment, emphasizing that the scope of the corruption demands more comprehensive action.

“We welcome any movement towards justice, but this is not enough. The list of names is far too short compared to the depth of the anomaly. It’s not enough to identify individuals; there must be a genuine investigation, swift trial, and actual recovery of stolen public funds,” she said. Co, meanwhile, underscored that flood control funds should protect communities—not enrich the corrupt.

“Flood control funds are meant to protect our people, not to line the pockets of the powerful. Public funds must serve the people, not the corrupt few. The Filipino people demand full transparency, genuine justice, and true accountability—not token charges and selective prosecution,” Co said.

The Makabayan bloc also questioned the depth of the ICI probe, asking who else may be involved beyond those publicly named.

“Who are the personalities behind Bernardo? How high does this go? Where are those with connections to Malacañang? The people have the right to know the full extent of this conspiracy—not just the names on the surface, but those who truly orchestrated and profited from this grand scheme,” the bloc said.

Meanwhile, Navotas Rep. Toby Tiangco has filed House Bill No. 5699 seeking to strengthen the ICI by creating a new body called the Independent Commission Against Infrastructure Corruption (ICAIC).

T he proposed commission will be empowered to investigate, file cases, issue subpoenas, recommend preventive suspensions, and request hold departure orders against officials involved in corruption related to infrastructure projects.

This developed as the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) on Wednesday disclosed that three registered air assets connected to Co have left the country.

“Two AgustaWestland helicopters are currently in Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia, having flown there on August 20 and September 11, respectively,” the CAAP said in a statement.

“Meanwhile, the Gulfstream aircraft has been in Singapore since August 16,” it added. CAAP said it continues to closely monitor all registered air assets in accordance with the law.

On Tuesday, the ICI issued a new subpoena to Co, who has yet to return to the country amid allegations of his involvement in anomalous flood control projects. With Jovie Marie N. dela Cruz and Nonie Reyes

Bill allows Ombudsman to open bank accounts

are unavailable, bring your discards home for sorting, recycling, and composting.

n Offer natural flowers: Offer locally grown flowers without plastic wrapping.

n Use clean-burning candles: Choose clean-burning candles and avoid letting plastic receptacles burn.

n Be respectful: Refrain from urinating in public places or on graves.

Use proper comfort rooms.

n Smoke not: Don’t smoke or vape in the cemetery. Show consideration for children, the elderly, pregnant women, and others nearby.

EcoWaste Coalition also appealed to local governments, cemetery administrators, and vendors to implement waste prevention measures, such as providing clearly labeled bins for segregated waste and discouraging the use of single-use plastics.

“Together, we can reduce waste and pollution not only in cemeteries, but everywhere,” EcoWaste Coalition emphasized. “Let us make this year’s Undas truly meaningful by showing care for the dead, the living, and the planet we all share.”

ALAWMAKER has filed a bill seeking to grant the Office of the Ombudsman the authority to directly access and examine bank accounts and records during investigations—without the need for a court order.

Under House Bill 5701, House Deputy Minority Leader Leila M. de Lima proposed to amend Section 15 (8) of Republic Act 6770, or the Ombudsman Act of 1989, and Section 2 of RA 1405, also known as the Law on Secrecy of Bank Deposits, as amended. “The Office of the Ombudsman—the primary authority in the fight against corruption—has to go through the court if it wants to access and examine bank accounts and records. A Supreme Court ruling has hindered the swift investigation of the Ombudsman, as it has practically rendered useless the Ombudsman’s power to issue subpoenas with respect to bank records and accounts,” de Lima said. She was referring to the 2001 Supreme Court ruling in Marquez v Desierto, which held that without a pending case in court, the Ombudsman cannot examine or access

“Bill,” A8

Thursday, October 30, 2025

Marcos signs law banning Pogos

By Samuel P. Medenilla

P@sam_medenilla

RESIDENT Marcos has signed

Republic Act 12312, institution -

alizing the ban on Philippine offshore gaming operators (POGOs) and declaring their operations and other related activities illegal.

With the signing of RA 12312, those who will engaged in the illegal gambling activity will face stiff fines and imprisonment.

The new law institutionalized the provisions of Executive Order 74, which prohibited Pogos. It also ensures that the transition program for Filipino workers, who were employed in Pogos and now facing retrenchment, will be institutionalized.

Under RA 12312, those who will violate its provisions will face fines ranging P300,000

to P50 million as well as six to 12 years of imprisonment.

If the offender is juridical entity, its responsible officer including its president,chief executive officer, general manager will be slapped with the said penalties. Public officials and employees, who will violate the provisions of RA 12312 will face the maximum penalty and also dismissa from service and will suffer perpetual disqualification from government service. Their retirement benefits will also be forfeited in favor of the government.

In case the violator is a foreigner, he or she must serve sentence before being deported and perpetually banned from entering the country.

Those convicted of violating RA 12312 will not qualify for probation. Buildings or facilities, materials, pieces of

CamSur lawmakers call for revival of train service

LAWMAKERS from Camarines Sur have revived in Congress the push for the long-delayed National Railways–South Long Haul (PNR-SLH) project, also known as the “Bicol Express,” urging the Department of Transportation (DOTr) to immediately conduct the long-awaited feasibility study for the high-speed rail

equipment, and paraphenalia used for Pogo actvities will also be forfeited in favor of the government.

Filipino workers, who will be displaced by the law, will be provided by the Department of Labor and Employment with interventions to provide them new livelihood including skills training, upskilling and reskilling, as well as employment facilitation.

The Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission was tasked to lead the Administrative Oversight Committee for the implementation of RA 12312.

The Department of Justice will issue the implementing rules of the new law within 60 days from its effectivity.

RA 12312, or the Anti-Pogo Act of 2025 repealed RA 11590, which legalized offshore gaming operation.

DA seizes ₧1.18-B unsafe, unregulated products

THE Department of Agriculture (DA) has confiscated P1.18 billion worth of “unsafe and unregulated” agricultural and fishery products over the past 10 months.

In a statement, Agriculture Undersecretary Alvin John Balagbag said the confiscation of products was conducted through 124 inspections and condemnation activities by the DA Inspectorate and Enforcement (DAIE) office since January.

With this, Balagbag underscored the DA’s initiatives to ensure that food remains safe, traceable, and properly regulated during the recent launching of the 2025 Food Safety Awareness Week.

This year, the agency has earmarked P3.298 billion for inspection, border control, and other regulatory services; P1.197 billion for integrated laboratories; and P85.219 million for food testing support.

For 2026, the DA proposes a P4.37-billion budget to further bolster its laboratory systems and regulatory programs.

The agency noted that its intensified monitoring and enforcement stretches across its attached agencies, including the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources’ (BFAR) expanded anti-illegal fishing operations to the National Meat Inspection Service’s (NMIS) testing of more than 40,000 samples for pathogens, residues, and other contaminants.

The DA said it reactivated its food safety focal group to integrate safety standards across agencies

The agency was also in the process of finalizing a memorandum of agreement (MOA) with the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for joint inspection of agricultural shipments to curb smuggling.

“These figures demonstrate our

commitment to a science-based, riskfocused food safety regulatory system that protects consumers and builds public confidence,” Balagbag said.

For his part, FDA Director General Paolo Teston said that the agency will soon launch a food safety contact center to address public concerns on food handling, processing, and distribution.

The FDA noted strengthening its collaboration with the Philippine Chamber of Food Manufacturers, Inc. (PCFMI) to assist micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in maintaining safe production standards.

“Food safety begins with awareness and continues with accountability,” Teston said. “Safe food is not a privilege. It is a right, and ensuring it is everyone’s responsibility.”

See “DA,” A8

system that could slash travel time from Metro Manila to Albay or Sorsogon from nearly 12 hours to just four.

House Resolution 18, authored by Reps. Miguel Luis Villafuerte, Luis Raymund Villafuerte Jr., Tsuyoshi Anthony Horibata, and Terry Ridon of the Bicol Saro party-list group, seeks to jumpstart the project seen as a key driver of growth and connectivity in Southern Luzon and the Bicol region.

The lawmakers said the Bicol Express aims to transform the historic ManilaBicol railway into a modern, standardgauge, high-speed rail line spanning more than 500 kilometers—designed to boost freight and passenger mobility and serve as a backbone for economic integration in the region.

While Bicol is known for its economic potential and rich natural resources, the authors noted that the region’s development has been hindered by the lack of efficient transport systems.

Citing Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) data, they pointed out that Bicol recorded a poverty incidence of 32.9 percent and a subsistence incidence of 12.8 percent in the first semester of

2023—underscoring the urgent need for infrastructure investments that can spur inclusive growth and job creation.

Under HR 18, Congress urges the DOTr to “prioritize and facilitate the Bicol Express High-Speed Rail Feasibility Study,” ensuring a comprehensive analysis of its economic, environmental, and social impact. It also encourages the department to coordinate with local governments,

regional development councils, and private stakeholders to support the study and eventual implementation.

The resolution cited a 2015 Japan International Cooperation Agency (Jica) corridor study projecting that the PNR-SLH route could reach up to 25,000 daily oneway passenger trips by 2039—indicating

See “CamSur,” A8

Thursday, October 30, 2025 A5

GCash user data scare: Dark web listing removed after fraudulent claims exposed

TBy Lorenz S. Marasigan @lorenzmarasigan

HE dark web listing advertising GCash user data for sale has been deleted after Philippine authorities exposed it as fraudulent, with initial investigations confirming that it contained recycled information from an unrelated previous incident.

Scam Watch Pilipinas Co-Founder Art Samaniego explained that the reason for the removal of the listing was due to the dark web’s standards, explaining that these underground digital marketplaces rely on reputation systems to maintain trust among buyers and sellers.

“In the dark web ecosystem, credibility is everything,” he said. “Once a poster is exposed as a scammer— say, for uploading fake or recycled data—they’re quickly banned and blacklisted by forum moderators. When a post vanishes after exposure, it’s often a sign that the data was fake and the user has been cut off.”

Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) Secretary Henry Aguda said he is personally monitoring the incident, noting that “based on the findings, the post is fake, and GCash remains safe and secure.”

Nonetheless, he urged Filipinos to remain vigilant against online scams and misinformation.

“If you see data allegedly being sold online, do not panic or share personal information,” he said. “Always verify through legitimate sources and be careful with what you post or click.”

On Wednesday, GCash assured customers that no breach, leaks, or system compromise occurred, and that all accounts and funds remain secure.

The mobile wallet provider also warned it will pursue legal action against individuals or groups spreading malicious or false claims that cause public confusion and undermine user trust.

“Our commitment to customer safety and data security is absolute,” GCash said in a statement.

‘Intentional self-harm’ deaths edge up in 2024, PSA reports

THE number of Filipinos who died by suicide rose slightly in 2024, according to new data from the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA).

The PSA reported 3,379 deaths from intentional self-harm last year, 246 more than the 3,133 recorded in 2023. Despite the uptick, suicide remained the 30th leading cause of death in the country.

The release comes as the World Health Organization (WHO) continues to warn that suicide is a global public health concern, responsible for more than one in every 100 deaths worldwide. For every life lost, the WHO said, there are over 20 suicide attempts.

Globally, high-income countries record the highest age-standardized suicide rate at 11.8 per 100,000 people, followed by low-income nations with 10.5 per 100,000.

Across genders, suicide remains one of the top causes of death among young people. In 2021, it was the second leading cause of death among females aged 15 to 29, and the third for males in the same age group.

More than half of all suicides occur before age 50, while rates among those aged 70 and older are more than twice that of people aged 30 to 49.

The WHO also pointed out that mental health conditions weigh heavily on economies, costing between 0.5 and 1 percent of a country’s gross domestic product, a burden felt even more in developing nations.

“Progress in reducing suicide mortality must accelerate to meet the Sustainable Development Goal target of a one-third reduction by 2030,” the WHO said in its September report coinciding with Suicide Prevention Month.

Heart disease still top killer

MEANWHILE, overall deaths in the country reached 701,861 in 2024, up from 694,821 the previous year.

Ischaemic heart disease remained the leading cause, claiming 134,078 lives or 19.1 percent of all recorded deaths.

It was followed by neoplasms, or cancers, which accounted for 77,433 deaths (11 percent), and cerebrovascular diseases such as stroke, which caused 68,736 deaths (9.8 percent).

Regionally, Calabarzon registered the most deaths with 105,241, representing 15 percent of the national total.

The National Capital Region (NCR), on the other hand, had 84,050 deaths, a two-percent rise from 82,410 in 2023. Within Metro Manila, Quezon City recorded the highest number of deaths at 18,397, or nearly 22 percent of the region’s total. Cavite, meanwhile, logged the most deaths among all provinces with 26,869. Per PSA, the data were based on civil registry records submitted to the agency’s regional offices nationwide. Bless Aubrey Ogerio

Aquaculture sector remains largely informal–DOLE

THE Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) warned that the country’s aquaculture industry remains largely informal, leaving thousands of workers without social protection or stable incomes despite its growing role in food production and exports.

Labor Secretary Bienvenido E. Laguesma said a study under the Resilient, Inclusive and Sustainable Supply Chains (RISSC) Project of the International Labour Organization (ILO) and the Government of Japan found that most aquaculture enterprises in the Philippines still operate outside formal labor regulation.

“The research shows that the structure of the aquaculture sector remains largely informal,” Laguesma said during the recently concluded National Industry Dialogue on Sustainable Aquaculture Supply Chains in Makati City.

“It found decent work deficits and challenges we all need to address, particularly in the areas of application of labor standards including on occupational safety and health, levels of skills and productivity, low or inadequate social protection coverage, and lack or underrepresentation of workers.”

He said informality continues to limit productivity and competitiveness in shrimp and seaweed farming—two of the country’s biggest aquaculture segments.

Most workers remain unregistered and underpaid, while small enterprises operate with low margins and no business continuity plans.

“Just transition of workers and enterprises in aquaculture is not about giving them other economic activities,” Laguesma said. “It is about keeping them within the sector because it is a sector that offers productive and remunerative employment.”

The labor chief said DOLE is coordinating with the Department of Agriculture, the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources, and the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority to formalize employment and raise skill levels across the sector.

He added that the department is also exploring simplified registration and contribution schemes with the Social Security System, PhilHealth, and Pag-IBIG Fund to extend social protection to small fishers and self-employed workers.

“We need to have a different mindset for us to uplift the sector. The archipelagic configuration of our country is…one vast natural endowment that has major potentials in generating productive, sustainable, and stable employment and income opportunities,” Laguesma also said.

Aquaculture accounts for more than half of the country’s total fisheries output and employs about 350,000 workers, based on ILO data.

The sector contributes roughly 1.7 percent to gross domestic product, generating $3.9 billion in annual production and $1 billion in exports, making the Philippines the world’s seventh in overall aquaculture output in 2019.

Under the ILO-Japan RISSC Project, government and industry partners are working to improve compliance and competitiveness by addressing human and labor risks. Justine Xyrah Garcia

PNP implements proactive ‘dual-hazard’ response amid Kanlaon and Taal unrest

THE Philippine National Police (PNP) on Wednesday said that it has activated its regional emergency and health response teams to establish a proactive, “dual-hazard” preparedness posture in response to the recent unrest shown by Kanlaon Volcano in Negros Island and Taal Volcano in Batangas.

In a statement, acting PNP chief Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. said police units across the affected regions were immediately placed on alert to comply with evacuation and disaster protocols set by local authorities.

“The strategic activation includes both standard police emergency response teams and specialized health teams. This ensures that the PNP can provide a full spectrum of immediate assistance, ranging from search and rescue operations to medical triage and psychological first aid,” he noted. Nartatez also highlighted the principle of personnel self-sufficiency, emphasizing that police must be prepared to sustain their operations while simultaneously assisting the public.

The acting PNP chief also issued strict directives regarding preparedness supplies for both the community and the operating forces.

He said the coordinated effort guarantees that essential Go Bags and face masks are ready for communities while also ensuring the welfare and operational readiness of the officers.

Kanlaon had a minor eruption on Friday and ashfall events on Saturday, while Taal had three minor phreatic and phreatomagmatic eruptions over the weekend.

Nartatez also assured the public that the PNP is committed to protecting life and property, and calls on all residents in affected areas to remain vigilant and cooperate fully with local government unit-mandated preemptive evacuations and safety advisories. Rex Anthony Naval

MAYOR ALONTE’S FIRST 100 DAYS: REINVIGORATING

These accomplishments lay a solid track record across public safety, education, livelihood, and

By Vincent Peter Rivera

FOR a city leader, taking the helm is not a simple change in office, but a profound responsibility that indicates the direction—and ultimately the future—of every constituent. This is the critical challenge now assumed by Hon. Angelo B. Alonte.

On October 8, 2025, Mayor Alonte, the 29th Mayor of the city, officially celebrated his first 100 days in office as the Chief Executive of Biñan, Laguna.

In his State of the City Address, Mayor Alonte reflected on his meaningful journey thus far, stating, “One hundred days filled with hope, with dreams, and with the promise that Biñan will continue to be a city of excellence and unity.”

Truly encapsulating this, the City of Biñan introduced a series of activities to recognize Mayor Alonte’s successful strides in more than three months of his new position.

A symbolic day

The City Government strongly

focused on social welfare and infrastructure development during Mayor Alonte’s first 100 days in office. A major highlight was the extensive distribution of social aid programs, including the provision of the Local Social Pension, popularly known as the “Pension ni Lolo at Lola,” which benefits over 29,000 senior citizens across the city. Beneficiaries receive a total monthly pension of P500, which is distributed quarterly.

Further expanding its commitment to vulnerable sectors, the local government has also launched the Subsidy Allowance program, which is set to assist 1,200 registered Solo Parents in Biñan with a P4,000 subsidy from the LGU for

the months of May to August.

These welfare initiatives were celebrated with a Thanksgiving Mass for the blessing of new facilities and equipment, including two new ambulance units, one new garbage collection truck, and two new e-tricycles. Additionally, the newly established tatakGEL Care Center, the Mayor’s Office, and the Gender and Development (GAD)/Kalinga Offices were also blessed.

These newly blessed vehicles and facilities will serve as a bridge to bring services closer to every Biñanense, especially those who need them immediately.

Extending this commitment to long-term community development, Mayor Alonte also led the groundbreaking ceremonies for several socialized housing projects, including the Molave Townhomes and Acacia Estate Homes to provide safe, quality, and conducive homes to every Biñanense family.

Meanwhile, a ceremonial Koi Releasing event also took place at the Biñan People’s Park. This event served as a powerful symbolic gesture, representing the city’s continuous growth, hope, prosperity, and ongoing transformation.

Public safety, peace, and order Mayor Alonte acknowledged that

the initial three months of his service were far from easy, as the city was immediately faced with various problems.

We were immediately challenged by nature. Strong storms, floods, and calamities tested our resilience,” Mayor Alonte said.

However, it was precisely in these most difficult times that Mayor Alonte witnessed the true strength and resilience of the Biñanenses to rise above any adversity.

To ensure preparedness and coordinate an effective response to typhoons and other calamities, the City Government of Biñan, through its City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (CDRRMO), has officially adopted and now utilizes the Incident Command System (ICS) as its standard on-scene management concept for all types of emergencies and disasters.

In the face of typhoons and calamities, our Incident Command System was activated, and relief operations were delivered to the affected barangays. Many groups and volunteers partnered with us in teaching preparedness and discipline,” Mayor Alonte highlighted.

The standardized ICS structure is immediately activated during emergencies. An Incident Commander (IC) leads the overall

management and response to the crisis, including setting objectives, strategies, and priorities for the command function.

B eyond critical disaster response, the city’s comprehensive focus extends to broader public order initiatives. “First and foremost, we ensured the safety of our citizens. We fixed the flow of traffic and further widened the main roads,” Mayor Alonte added, emphasizing that ensuring public safety starts with efficient logistics and flow.

These community-focused efforts also cover several other sectors of local safety and security.

The City Government has maintained a strong commitment to controlling stray animals, providing necessary assistance to household pets, providing consistent training for the barangay tanod (village security guards), and sustaining the fight against illegal drugs through the Balay Silangan rehabilitation program.

Th is holistic commitment to community and service-oriented policing is why Biñan and Mayor Alonte were deservedly recognized as the Outstanding Local Chief Executive in the entire CALABARZON region by the National Police Commission (NAPOLCOM).

Environmental Sustainability and Climate Action

The City of Biñan has demonstrated an outstanding commitment to environmental sustainability and climate action, earning both national recognition and significant local results.

When it comes to the environment, we were recognized as a Platinum Awardee in the LGU Compliance Assessment by the DILG Laguna, and we were given an award at the Environmental Summit for our campaign against plastic pollution,” proudly shared.

Th is prestigious Platinum LGU Compliance Assessment award from the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) and recognition by the DENR-Environmental Management Bureau (EMB) underscore Biñan’s dedication to reduce pollution.

With one of the city’s technical solutions to the plastic crisis, the Expanded Centralized Materials Recovery Facility (MRF) in Barangay Timbao, Biñan has successfully diverted 92 tons of plastic waste, preventing it from damaging the environment.

A s Mayor Alonte added: “We also continue our clean-up drives, tree planting, and support for our local fisherfolk.”

Mayor Alonte participates in the groundbreaking ceremony of Acacia Estate Homes: Socialized Housing Project.

Mayor Alonte visits the site location for the soon-to-rise daycare center, in partnership with Ronald McDonald House Charities of the Philippines Inc., in Barangay Poblacion, Biñan.

Mayor Alonte, Former Congresswoman Marlyn "Len" B. Alonte-Naguiat, and Vice Mayor Reyes take part in the groundbreaking ceremony of Biñan City Cancer Institute.

REINVIGORATING DEVELOPMENT IN THE CITY OF BIÑAN

and cultural development—but this is just the start of the administration’s public service mission.

These ongoing initiatives, including the clean-up, tree-planting, and coastal rehabilitation activities, solidify Biñan’s position as a leader in effective, communitydriven climate action.

Economic Development and Livelihood

A core priority of the city administration is to actively support local vendors and ensure public health within key commercial centers. “In the first three months, we immediately visited the vendors, listened to their concerns, and delivered free medical services,” Mayor Alonte noted.

True to this advocacy, the Biñan City Health Office II, in partnership with the Philippine Business for Social Progress (PBSP), conducted Tuberculosis (TB) screening, utilizing chest X-rays for market vendors at the Biñan Public Market in Barangay Poblacion.

To further drive growth for the Small and Medium-sized Entrepreneurs (SMEs), the City of Biñan implemented the “Kadiwa ng Pangulo.”

The program aims to bring affordable staple goods directly to consumers, providing immediate support to

local businesses and ensuring accessible food for all Biñanenses. Th is dedicated focus on commerce culminated in a significant achievement, which Mayor Alonte revealed: “Biñan was recognized as the 2025 Most Business-Friendly LGU City.”

Tourism and Cultural Development

Known for its deep cultural roots, the City of Biñan has always been dedicated to preserving and promoting its rich heritage. The city recently conducted the UST Cultural Mapping project. This meaningful effort culminated during the 2025 Association of Tourism Officers of the Philippines (ATOP) National Tourism Pearl Awards, held on October 2, 2025, where the city won the Best Cultural Event for its vibrant Puto Latik Festival and Best Program for Culture and Arts for the highly successful Dulambayan Biñan Theater Arts Festival.

In addition, we are one of only three LGUs that are national finalists in the Philippine Tourism Awards for Best Tourism Destination of the Year,” Mayor Alonte further highlighted. To support the growing cultur-

al reputation, the city has reinvested in its institutions. In celebration of Museums and Galleries Month, the Biñan City Museum has been reopened following extensive renovation and the upgrade of its collections. The museum now welcomes visitors free of charge, Monday to Friday, from 9 AM to 4 PM. For a unified and hospitable experience for all visitors, the city government adopted a standardized service commitment. Mayor Alonte announced going forward, “the words MABUHAY and SALAMAT PO will be embraced by the entire City Government in its frontline services as part of the Department of Tourism’s Filipino Brand of Service Excellence campaign (FBSE).”

Education

Another key aspect of the community that Mayor Alonte has focused on during his first 100 days is investing in the education of the younger generation. On October 07, 2025, the local government distributed P10,000 worth of academic assistance to a total of 501 students enrolled in the “Iskolar ng Biñan” (INB) and “Artista at Atletang Biñanense College” (ABC) pro -

Center in partnership with the Ronald McDonald House Charities of the Philippines Inc.

Health

Mayor Alonte prioritized bettering the city’s healthcare system. Together with Vice Mayor Jonalina “Dada” R. Reyes and City Administrator Cherry Alonte-Nuñez, the City Government of Biñan signed a MOA with several key partner hospitals that are part of the Health Assistance Program for Indigent (HAPI) Families. Th is program aims to help constituents who are most in need, believing that medical service is not a privilege, but a right of every Biñanense.

grams from Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP)-Biñan.

Furthermore, financial assistance was extended to 386 Grade 11 senior high school students under the local government’s Financial Assistance Program. Mayor Alonte emphasized the holistic approach to education, stating, “The effort of our teachers is immeasurable, which is why we also distributed the City Grant for public school and TESDA teachers during the celebration of World Teachers Day.”

The city’s commitment to quality education is evident in its robust institutional partnerships. These include the “Iskolar ng Biñan” (INB) Scholarship Program with partner schools such as University of Perpetual Help System Laguna, UPH Dr. Jose G. Tamayo Medical University, St. Michael's College of Laguna, La Consolacion College-Biñan, Lake Shore Colleges, Colegio San Agustin-Biñan, PUPBiñan, Guardians Bonafide for Hope Foundation Inc., CITI Global College, and Trimex Colleges.

Additionally, the city has advanced specific collaborative initiatives, recently facilitating a site visitation at the Poblacion Day Care

The partner hospitals now include Batangas Medical Center, Evangelista Medical Specialty Hospital Inc., UPH Dr. Jose G. Tamayo Medical Center, Biñan Doctors’ Hospital, New Sinai MDI Hospital, Unihealth Southwoods Hospital and Medical Center, Unihealth Sta. Rosa Hospital and Medical Center, and the Biñan City Hospital.

Mayor Alonte added: “In healthcare, we have established the City Employees Medical Clinic, opened the new Dialysis Center, and started construction of the Biñan City Cancer Institute.”

On top of these developments, the city’s capacity was elevated by securing necessary accreditations.

Mayor Alonte noted, “Our capacity was further increased due to the Department of Health (DOH) and PhilHealth accreditations—allowing us to deliver more free consultations, medicines, and medical and dental services.”

Other projects

The city has taken significant strides toward inclusive development and planning for future resiliency. Focusing on gender equality, the local government, represented

and

signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with Alliance Institute PTE LTD. Th is agreement is a crucial step towards implementing more inclusive development programs for all genders. In addition to this partnership, the administration also launched the GAD Agenda 2025 and the KabaranGAD ni Gel initiative to champion gender rights and welfare.

In terms of infrastructure and long-term planning, the administration is significantly strengthening the Project Monitoring Committee. This committee will oversee and ensure the swift completion of key infrastructure projects, particularly those related to drainage, river protection, and other vital community facilities.

In recognition of the pressing need for environmental resilience, a dedicated committee has been established to formulate the Flood Control Master Plan, with existing proposals currently undergoing revision to permanently address and mitigate flooding in several barangays across the city.

In just over a hundred days, Mayor Alonte’s administration has established a clear, comprehensive foundation for the city’s future. The scope of the work is vast, ranging from securing accolades to key infrastructure projects that demonstrate unwavering commitment to long-term growth.

W hile these accomplishments lay a solid track record across public safety, education, livelihood, and cultural development, the administration acknowledges that this is merely the beginning. The journey ahead demands continued focus, collaboration, and decisive leadership to sustain this positive momentum and ensure the improved quality of life of every Biñanense.

by Mayor Alonte, Vice Mayor Reyes,

GAD Focal Person Dra. Arlene Alonte-Ancheta

Former Congresswoman Alonte-Naguiat, Mayor Alonte, and Vice Mayor Reyes lead the blessing of the Biñan City Hospital Dialysis Center.

The City of Biñan holds a blessing for the different rooms and facilities inside the Biñan City Studies Center.

Mayor Alonte and Vice Mayor Reyes at the blessing and ribbon-cutting ceremony of the tatakGEL Care Center.

Mayor Alonte, Congressman Dimaguila, Vice Mayor Jonalina "Dada" R. Reyes, and Biñan City Culture, History, Arts and Tourism Office (BCHATO) Head Dr. Bryan Jayson "BJ" Borja lead the ribbon-cutting ceremony of the Biñan City Studies Center.

Mayor Alonte leads the groundbreaking ceremony of Molave Townhomes: Socialized Housing Project.

Mayor Angelo B. Alonte delivers his State of the City Address during his first 100 days in the office.

Mayor Alonte and Congressman Atty. Walfredo R. Dimaguila Jr. grace the formal opening of the Biñan City Museum.

Family members of Mayor Alonte attend his State of the City Address, further demonstrating the spirit of "tatakGEL."

Government officials of Biñan share the stage with Mayor Alonte to show their support during his State of the City Address.

SC gives Sandigabayan go-signal to separately try Jinggoy for graft in connection with his PDAF

THE Supreme Court (SC) has given the Sandiganbayan the go-signal to proceed with the trial of the 11 counts of graft filed against Senator Jinggoy Estrada in connection with the alleged irregularities in the disbursement of his Priority Development Assistance Fund (PDAF) from 2008 to 2010.

In its resolution promulgated during the Court’s en banc session on October 28, 2025, the SC dismissed Estrada’s contention that his graft charges under Section 3(e) of Republic Act No. 3019 are “deemed absorbed” by his plunder charges under Republic Act No. 7080 (Anti-Plunder Law).

“The Decision effectively affirms that violations of Republic Act No. 3019 may be prosecuted separately from plunder,” the SC declared.

It can be recalled that the P183million plunder case was dismissed by the Sandiganbayan in a ruling issued on January 19, 2024 but found Estrada guilty for one count of direct bribery and two counts of

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a strong transport demand capable of sustaining long-term investment.

The lawmakers noted renewed Japanese interest in undertaking the high-speed rail study after the China-backed plan lapsed,

indirect bribery.

Estrada was sentenced to eight to nine years imprisonment for direct bribery and meted out a special temporary disqualification from holding public office and perpetual disqualification to vote. He was also ordered to pay a fine of P3 million.

But the anti-graft court eventually reversed its decision and cleared Estrada of one count of direct bribery and two counts of indirect bribery due to lack of evidence.

The Court declared that the component act of “giving any private party any unwarranted benefit, advantage or preference” under Section 3(e) of R.A. 3019 cannot be absorbed by the predicate criminal acts under Section 1(d)(2) and (6) of R.A. No. 7080, emphasizing that the two offenses punish distinct wrongs.

The SC pointed out that under R.A. 3019, the benefit or advantage is given to a private individual separate from the public officer while under R.A. 7080, it

reflecting Tokyo’s support for high-impact projects under the Marcos administration’s “Build Better More” program. They also recalled that during his confirmation hearings in June 2024, then-Transportation Secretary Vivencio Dizon committed to securing international funding for the Bicol Express, adding that investors from the European Union,

is the public officer himself who directly benefits by receiving kickbacks or unjustly enriching himself through a combination or series of overt acts.

“The only exception to this rule is when the Information alleging a violation of Section 3(e) of Republic Act No. 3019 names the same public officer, acting in a private capacity, as the beneficiary of the unwarranted benefit, advantage or preference,” the Court explained.

The Court further explained that the absorption principle—where one offense merges into another—does not apply between graft and plunder, except in rare cases where the same public officer is both the giver and recipient of the unwarranted benefit.

For his defense, Estrada maintained that the graft cases should be dismissed as the acts alleged in these cases were the same acts cited in the plunder case filed against him which had already been dismissed.

Joel R. San Juan

including France, had expressed interest in the project.

Migz Villafuerte said the DOTr is the most appropriate agency to lead the study, being the country’s main transport policy body and the one tasked to identify suitable financing and technical arrangements—whether through official development assistance

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bank accounts under investigation.

“To clarify this matter and to supplant Marquez, there is a need to amend Section 15 [8] of RA 6770 and Section 2 of RA 1405 to expressly grant the Office of the Ombudsman the authority to examine and access bank accounts and records, without the necessity of going to court,” de Lima added.

“This will not only strengthen the subpoena power of the Office of the Ombudsman, aiding it in its investigation of allegations of anomalies and irregularities in the government. This will also help in deterring corrupt

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Continued from A4

Established under Presidential Proclamation No. 160 in 1999, the DA said

(ODA), public-private partnerships (PPP), or a mix of both.

Meanwhile, Luigi Villafuerte shared that President Marcos had earlier instructed the DOTr to explore ways to accelerate both the Bicol Express and the modernization of Naga Airport during a March 2024 Regional Development Council (RDC) meeting in Pili, Camarines Sur.

officials and their accomplices from taking advantage of legal loopholes in our banking system,” she also said.

If this measure is enacted into law, the Ombudsman shall have the power to “administer oaths, issue subpoenas and subpoenas duces tecum, and take testimony in any investigation or inquiry, including the power to examine and have access to bank accounts and records that are the subject of its inquiry or investigation without need of a case in court or a court order.”

“Based on past investigations, trillions of pesos in public funds have been lost to corruption—money that could have gone to programs benefiting the Filipino people,”

Food Safety Awareness Week continues to remind Filipinos that preventing foodborne illnesses starts at every level in the supply chain—from farms and factories to households and dining tables.

Citing data from the World Health

Following the breakdown of ManilaBeijing talks on the PNR-SLH funding at the end of the Duterte administration, Governor Luis Raymund Villafuerte proposed reviving the project through alternative financing sources.

de Lima, the nominee to the House of the party-list group Mamamayang Liberal, said. “Instead, these funds found their way into the pockets of certain corrupt politicians, intermediaries, government officials, and private contractors.”

De Lima stressed that now, more than ever, it is crucial to strengthen the authority of the Office of the Ombudsman as the people’s watchdog to effectively investigate anomalies in government. She emphasized that corrupt individuals often exploit legal loopholes to conceal and cover up their wrongdoing, making it imperative to empower the Ombudsman with the necessary tools to uncover the truth and ensure accountability.

Organization (WHO), the agency noted that around 1.6 million people worldwide fall victim to contaminated food every day. The WHO has recorded 200 diseases caused by unsafe food, the DA added.

Villafuerte, who also serves as president of the National Unity Party (NUP) and senior vice chair for South Luzon of the League of Provinces of the Philippines, suggested converting the Bicol Express into a high-speed “bullet train” modelled after Japan’s Shinkansen—capable of reaching speeds up to 320 kilometers per hour—to cut travel time between Metro Manila and Bicol to about four hours.

Ada Pelonia

Jovee Marie N. dela Cruz

Editor: Angel R. Calso

South Korea trade deal appears elusive as Trump seeks $350-billion investment

By Chris Megerian The Associated Press

GYEONGJU, South Korea—After a charm offensive in Japan that culminated in $490 billion in investment commitments, President Donald Trump met with South Korea’s leader on Wednesday as a trade deal with that country appears more elusive.

Top officials in Washington and Seoul say the sticking point for an agreement continues to be the logistics behind Trump’s demand that South Korea invest $350 billion in the United States.

Korean officials say putting up cash could destabilize their own economy, and they’d rather offer loans and loan guarantees instead. The country would also need a swap line to manage the flow of its currency into the US.

The disparity between what Trump is asking for and what South Korea can deliver threatens to overshadow the meeting between Trump and South Korean President Lee Jae Myung in Gyeongju, a historical city playing host to the annual Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation summit.

Trump said the two countries are “wedded,” praising their “very special relationship” during remarks at a business forum. He also said they’re “very close” to a deal.

Speaking broadly about international trade, Trump suggested a more conciliatory approach than his usual confrontational stance.

“The best deals are deals that work for everybody,” he said.

Lee, speaking at the forum before Trump arrived, warned against trade barriers.

“At a time when protectionism and nationalism are on the rise and nations focus on their immediate survival, words like ‘cooperation,’ ‘coexistence,’ and ‘inclusive growth’ may sound hollow,” he said. “Yet, paradoxically, it is in times of crisis like this that APEC’s role as a platform for solidarity shines brighter.”

Trade negotiations have been trickier than in Japan OH HYUNJOO, a deputy national security director, told reporters that the negotiations have been proceeding “a little bit more slowly” than expected.

“We haven’t yet been able to reach an agreement on matters such as the structure of investments, their formats and how the profits will be distributed,” she said Monday.

It’s a contrast from Trump’s experience in Japan, where the government has worked to fulfill its commitment of $550 billion in investments as part of an earlier trade agreement.

Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick announced up to $490 billion in commitments during a dinner with business leaders in Tokyo.

Trump bonded with Japan’s new prime minister, Sanae Takaichi, on his trip Tuesday, taking her with him as he spoke to US troops aboard an aircraft carrier and then unveiling several major energy and technology projects in America to be funded by Japan.

In contrast, US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One on Monday, said a deal wasn’t ready in South Korea.

“Just a lot of details to work out,” he said, although he suggested they were close.

For now, South Korea is stuck with a 25% tariff on automobiles, putting automakers such as Hyundai and Kia at a disadvantage against Japanese and European competitors, which face 15%.

South Korea’s leader tries gifts to win Trump over LEE took office in June and had a warm

meeting with Trump at the White House in August, when he cranked up the flattery. He also showered Trump with gifts in Gyeongju, presenting him with a gold medal and crown.

The medal represents the Grand Order of Mugunghwa, the country’s highest honor.

Trump is the first US president to receive it.

Trump said “it’s as beautiful as it can possibly be” and “I’d like to wear it right now.”

Next was a replica of a royal crown from the Silla Kingdom, which existed from 57 B.C. to 935 A.D. The original crown was found in a tomb in Gyeongju, the kingdom’s

capital.

But there’s been points of tension since then, notably a US immigration raid on a Hyundai plant in Georgia in September.

More than 300 South Koreans were detained, sparking outrage and a sense of betrayal.

Lee said companies would likely hesitate to make future investments unless the visa system was improved.

“If that’s not possible, then establishing a local factory in the United States will either come with severe disadvantages or become very difficult for our companies,” he said. “They will wonder whether they should even do it.”

South Korea’s Foreign Ministry said in early October that the US had agreed to allow South Korean workers on short-term visas or a visa waiver program to help build industrial sites in America.

Asked Monday about the immigration raid, Trump said, “I was opposed to getting them out,” and he said an improved visa system would make it easier for companies to bring in skilled workers.

Trump-Xi meeting is expected

Thursday

WHILE in South Korea, Trump is also expected to hold a closely watched meeting on Thursday with Chinese leader Xi Jinping. Washington and Beijing have clashed over trade, but both sides have indicated that they’re willing to dial down tensions.

Trump told reporters aboard Air Force One on Wednesday that he expects to lower tariffs targeting China over the flow of fentanyl ingredients.

“They’ll be doing what they can do,” he said. Trump added that “China is going to be working with me.” Trump sounded resigned to the idea that he wouldn’t get to meet North Korean leader Kim Jong Un on this trip. The president previously floated the possibility of extending his stay in South Korea, but on Wednesday said “the schedule was very tight.”

North Korea has so far dismissed overtures from Washington and Seoul, saying it won’t resume diplomacy with the United States unless Washington drops its demand for the North’s denuclearization. North Korea said Wednesday it fired sea-to-surface cruise missiles into its western waters, in the latest display of its growing military capabilities as Trump visits South Korea.

Trump brushed off the weapons test, saying “he’s been launching missiles for decades, right?”

The two leaders met during Trump’s first term, although their conversations did not produce any agreements about North Korea’s nuclear program.

The Associated Press writers Kim Tong-hyung and Hyung-jin Kim contributed from Seoul, South Korea, and Josh Boak contributed from Tokyo.

Huge Brazilian raid on Rio gang leaves 64 people dead and 81 under arrest

By Eléonore Hughes & Diarlei Rodrigues

The Associated Press

RIO DE JANEIRO—About 2,500 Brazilian police and soldiers launched a massive raid on a drug-trafficking gang in Rio de Janeiro on Tuesday, arresting 81 suspects and sparking shootouts that left at least 60 suspects and four police officers dead, officials said.

The operation included officers in helicopters and armored vehicles and targeted the notorious Red Command in the sprawling low-income favelas of Complexo de Alemao and Penha, police said.

The police operation was one of the most violent in Brazil’s recent history, with human rights organizations calling for investigations into the deaths.

Rio’s state Gov. Claudio Castro said in a video posted on X that 60 criminal suspects were “neutralized” during the massive raid that he called the biggest such operation in the city’s history. Some 81 suspects were arrested, while 93 rifles and more than half a ton of drugs were seized, the state government said, adding that those killed “resisted police action.”

Rio’s civil police said on X that four officers died in Tuesday’s operation. “The cowardly attacks by criminals against our agents will not go unpunished,” it said.

An unknown number of people were wounded.

The United Nations’ human rights body said it was “horrified” by the deadly police operation, called for effective investigations and reminded authorities of their obligations under international human rights law.

César Muñoz, director of Human Rights Watch in Brazil, called Tuesday’s events “a huge tragedy” and a “disaster.”

“The public prosecutor’s office must open its own investigations and clarify the circumstances of each death,” Muñoz said in a statement.

Footage on social media showed fire and smoke rising from the two favelas as gunfire rang out. The city’s Education Department said 46 schools across the two neighborhoods were closed, and the nearby Federal University of Rio de Janeiro canceled night classes and told people on campus to seek shelter.

Suspected gang members blocked roads in northern and southeastern Rio in response to the raid, local media reported. At least 70 buses were commandeered to be used in the blockades, causing significant damage, the city’s bus organization Rio Onibus said.

The operation Tuesday followed a year of investigation into the criminal group, police said.

Gov. Castro, from the conservative opposition Liberal Party, said the federal government should be providing more support to combat crime—a swipe at the administration of leftist President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva.

Gleisi Hoffmann, the Lula administration’s liaison with the parliament, agreed that coordinated action was needed but pointed to a recent crackdown on money laundering as an example of the federal government’s action on organized crime.

Vice President Geraldo Alckmin and a number of ministers met in response to the operation on Tuesday afternoon. Chief of Staff Rui Costa requested an emergency meeting in Rio on Wednesday, with him in

attendance as well as Justice Minister Ricardo Lewandowski.

Emerging from Rio’s prisons, the Red Command criminal gang has expanded its control in favelas in recent years.

Rio has been the scene of lethal police raids for decades. In March 2005, some 29 people were killed in Rio’s Baixada Fluminense region, while in May 2021, 28 were killed in the Jacarezinho favela.

While the Tuesday’s police operation

was similar to previous ones, its scale was unprecedented, said Luis Flavio Sapori, a sociologist and public safety expert at Pontifical Catholic University of Minas Gerais.

“What’s different about today’s operation is the magnitude of the victims. These are war numbers,” he said.

He argued that these kinds of operations are inefficient because they do not tend to catch the masterminds, but rather target underlings who can later be replaced.

“It’s not enough to go in, exchange gunfire, and leave. There’s a lack of strategy in Rio de Janeiro’s public security policy,” Sapori said. “Some lower-ranking members of these factions are killed, but those individuals are quickly replaced by others.”

The Marielle Franco Institute, a nonprofit founded by the slain councilwoman ‘s family to continue her legacy of fighting for the rights of people living in favelas, also criticized the operation.

PRESIDENT Donald Trump shakes hands with South Korean President Lee Jae Myung as they attend a high honor ceremony at the Gyeongju National Museum in Gyoeongju, South Korea, Wednesday, Oct. 29, 2025. AP/MARK SCHIEFELBEIN

Good governance: The key to disaster resilience beyond geographic factors

THE Philippines is frequently called the most disaster-prone country in the world, and it continually struggles with natural disasters. These events are made worse by problems with how the country is governed. GlobalSource Partners recently pointed out that while the Philippines will always face the risk of disasters, improved governance could enhance the country’s resilience and promote economic growth. (Read the BusinessMirror story: “Good governance can blunt disaster impact,” October 28, 2025).

According to the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council, the numbers paint a disturbing picture. Typhoons in September alone inflicted over P1.7 billion in damages to infrastructure and agriculture, while a recent earthquake in Cebu resulted in P6.8 billion in further losses. These numbers are not merely statistics; they represent the livelihoods disrupted and the communities uprooted. Yet, the economic toll extends beyond immediate damages. Corruption in public infrastructure projects is a silent killer of growth, costing the nation an estimated P118.5 billion from 2023 to 2025, according to the Department of Finance. This reality is a moral indictment, as economists Diwa Guinigundo and Wilhelmina Mañalac poignantly state: “Corruption kills growth, weakens resilience, and erodes trust.”

For a developing nation like the Philippines, the need for good governance transcends moral obligation; it is an economic necessity. Inefficiencies and fraud in public works not only squander resources but also undermine the very foundations of inclusive growth. Connectivity, productivity, and resilience are sacrificed at the altar of mismanagement and corruption. To break free from this cycle, we must embrace integrity, discipline, and political will in rebuilding our infrastructure and institutions.

Positive steps are being taken. The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) has initiated bureaucratic reforms aimed at restoring integrity and efficiency. The introduction of an online project tracker enhances transparency, while closer coordination with the Commission on Audit aims to ensure rigorous oversight. Furthermore, the establishment of the Independent Commission for Infrastructure is a significant move towards fostering accountability, enabling audits of major projects, and advocating for the prosecution of corrupt officials.

However, these measures need to go beyond surface-level bureaucratic changes; they must fundamentally instill a culture of integrity at every level of governance.

In a country prone to natural disasters, it’s disheartening that our resilience against adversity hinges solely on the decisions of our leaders and institutions. The way forward is evident: we must prioritize effective governance as the foundation of our disaster preparedness and response strategies.

It’s important to remember that while the Philippines cannot change its geography, the Filipino people—over one hundred million strong— have the power to transform how our government operates. By prioritizing good governance, the nation can turn vulnerability into resilience and transform challenges into opportunities for sustainable growth and development. The choice is clear: continue down the path of corruption and destruction, or forge a new path towards a more resilient and prosperous future. It is crucial for all citizens to recognize that the moment for decisive action has arrived.

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When rivers become battlegrounds

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John Mangun

OUTSIDE THE BOX

ROUND 2400 BCE, the Sumerian city-states of Lagash and Umma went to war over irrigation water. Lagash diverted canals feeding Umma’s fields, sparking one of the first documented conflicts over a resource humanity cannot live without. More than four millennia later, the same struggle endures—only now, it shapes geopolitics.

Afghanistan’s Qosh Tepa Canal is the newest chapter in this old story.

The 285-kilometer waterway cuts across northern Afghanistan, diverting the Amu Darya River, which sustains millions in Uzbekistan and Turkmenistan. When complete, it could redirect up to 30 percent of the river’s annual flow—roughly six to 13 billion cubic meters of water. More than 230 kilometers were completed by March 2025, with full operation expected by 2028. For Afghanistan, long scarred by war and sanctions, the canal promises food security and sovereignty—a bold bid to trade dependency for self-reliance.

Downstream, the picture darkens. Uzbekistan and Turkmenistan rely heavily on the Amu Darya to ir-

rigate their cotton and wheat fields. Reduced flow could devastate harvests, worsen soil salinization, and accelerate the ecological ruin of the basin.

The region has already lived through one water catastrophe— the Aral Sea’s collapse in the 1960s during the Soviet Union’s large-scale irrigation projects, a stark reminder of what happens when politics outrun planning. The worst-case projections estimate Uzbekistan could lose up to 15 percent of its water supply and Turkmenistan as much as 80 percent, with dire economic and political consequences.

The deeper issue is governance.

Afghanistan is not a party to the 1996 Almaty Agreement regulating

Water is not merely a natural resource. It is the foundation of power and survival and the first test of a nation’s competence. It is more than nature’s gift; it is the measure of how societies endure.

Central Asian water use and has no treaty with its northern neighbors. That absence leaves Kabul acting unilaterally, without mechanisms for data sharing or accountability. Sovereignty without coordination risks turning necessity into conflict.

Such tensions echo globally. Ethiopia’s Grand Renaissance Dam continues to test Egypt’s historic rights to the Nile. Turkey’s control of the Tigris and Euphrates strains its ties with Iraq and Syria. Even the Indus Waters Treaty between India and Pakistan—one of the world’s most durable water-sharing agreements— exists in a constant state of political tension. Across continents, rivers remain the front lines of power. Global food markets, energy flows, and trade routes are all influenced by water access. When upstream nations divert rivers, downstream economies falter, and global prices surge.

Afghanistan’s canal now draws attention far beyond Central Asia.

Russia sees it as a challenge to its regional influence. China worries

about instability along its Belt and Road corridors. Iran views it as a precedent for unilateral control. What appears to be a national development project has become a geopolitical signal—an assertion that Afghanistan will act first and negotiate later.

For the Philippines, this may seem remote, yet the same logic applies. Our water disputes unfold within our borders—between provinces, agencies, and sectors rather than nations. The 2019 Metro Manila water crisis left six million residents with intermittent supply and P464 million in crop losses. In Mindanao, drought and poor irrigation have displaced families and deepened rural poverty. Senator Grace Poe noted that at least 45 executive agencies across 15 departments share overlapping water mandates. This fragmentation has left the Philippines ranked 33rd of 48 Asian countries in water security, despite its strong economic growth. Watershed management is divided, enforcement inconsistent, and long-term planning scarce. The proposed Department of Water Resources bill—House Bill 9663 and Senate Bill 2771—aims to centralize authority, but as of late 2024, it remains stalled in Congress. Agriculture, which employs about 20 percent of the national workforce,

“Mangun,” A11

Hegseth calls Japan’s defense spending plans ‘wonderful’

By Alastair Gale

DEFENSE Secretary Pete Hegseth praised Japan’s new resolve to bolster its military a day after President Donald Trump and Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi agreed to deepen US-Japan defense ties.

“It’s wonderful,” Hegseth said Wednesday of Tokyo’s intention to accelerate the timing of a planned increase in defense spending to 2 percent of gross domestic product, and to come up with additional plans for military investment.

Following a meeting with Japanese Defense Minister Shinjiro Koizumi in Tokyo, Hegseth said in a press conference the US was also making progress on creating a new headquarters for its military in Japan. He said all initial personnel were now in place for the HQ, which will be the counterpart for a new Japanese combined military command. Koizumi, meanwhile, confirmed there were no demands over defense spending in the meeting with Hegs-

eth, and added that all options were on the table to increase Japan’s defense capabilities.

“We will consider what is needed to protect the independence and peace of the Japanese people, without ruling anything out,” Koizumi said.

On Tuesday, Trump and Takaichi played up the role of the alliance in remarks on the USS George Washington aircraft carrier. Around 53,000 active duty American service members are based in Japan, the largest permanent US overseas military presence.

“The cherished alliance between the United States and Japan is one of the most remarkable relationships in the entire world, really,” Trump said on board the carrier at the Yokosuka

Following a meeting with Japanese Defense Minister Shinjiro Koizumi in Tokyo, Hegseth said in a press conference the US was also making progress on creating a new headquarters for its military in Japan. He said all initial personnel were now in place for the HQ, which will be the counterpart for a new Japanese combined military command.

Naval Base, the home of the US Seventh Fleet.

Trump added that he had expedited the delivery of missiles for Japan’s fleet of F-35 fighter jets.

Takaichi, for her part, called the alliance the “greatest in the world.”

Soon after becoming prime minister this month, Takaichi said she would lift Japan’s defense spending to 2% of GDP this fiscal year, two years ahead of schedule.

Takaichi has also said she would accelerate plans to come up with a new

defense spending plan for the following years, as well as an updated national security strategy and national defense strategy. Those moves appear to have relieved immediate pressure from the US for Japan to raise defense spending to 5 percent of GDP, in line with a target set by Nato countries.  In a speech in Singapore earlier this year, Hegseth said the US’s Asian allies should emulate that target, but he didn’t press the issue in Tokyo.

“I have nothing but respect” for Japan’s investment in the military “and the pace at which they undertake it,” Hegseth said.

Kenneth Weinstein, Japan Chair at the Hudson Institute, said there would be a continued US expectation that Japan will raise spending, but the issue was no longer an “urgent” matter. He noted that the Nato goal of reaching 5 percent had a target of 2035.

“That gives Japan a long time, and it’s making all the right moves,” he said. See “Hegseth,” A11

China unleashes media blitz on Taiwan before Xi-Trump meeting

BEIJING is using state media outlets to amplify its claims over Taiwan, a move likely intended to reinforce its position on a sensitive issue before a key meeting between Chinese leader Xi Jinping and President Donald Trump.

In recent days, the official Xinhua News Agency has published three commentaries written by Zhong Taiwen, a homonym for the government department in Beijing that handles Taiwan affairs. While the articles didn’t break new ground, they reiterated Beijing’s view that “reunification” would be good for Taiwan and historically inevitable.

“The complete reunification of the motherland must and will be achieved,” one said.

The articles came after a key Chinese legislative body made October 25 “Commemoration Day of Taiwan’s Restoration”—something Beijing has said Xi himself wanted. The day is intended to mark the end of Japanese colonial rule of Taiwan in 1945, though the current government in Beijing never governed the archipelago after the Japanese left.

The media push comes before Trump and Xi are scheduled to meet on Thursday on the sidelines of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation summit in South Korea—their first in-person sit-down since Trump returned to office.

The Taiwan issue is one of the thorniest of the relationship between the world’s two biggest economies given the US backs the democracy militarily and China sees it as lost territory that must be brought under its control, by force if necessary. The government in Taipei disputes Beijing’s claims, saying the archipelago is de facto independent and not a part of China.

Wu Xinbo, director at Fudan University’s Center for American Studies in Shanghai, said that because the Taiwan question was very important to China, it would “certainly come up” in the Xi-Trump talks.

He said the stepped up media attention “is intended to send a signal not only to Taiwan, but also to the US side” that Beijing would never allow Taipei to declare independence. China also wanted to show it was very adamant about bringing the archipelago under its control, Wu added.

Speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One on Wednesday, Trump said he didn’t know if he’d speak to Xi about Taiwan.

“I’m not sure—he may want to ask about it,” Trump said. “There’s not that much to ask about Taiwan.”

There has been speculation that

Mangun . . .

continued from A10

The Taiwan issue is one of the thorniest of the relationship between the world’s two biggest economies given the US backs the democracy militarily and China sees it as lost territory that must be brought under its control, by force if necessary. The government in Taipei disputes Beijing’s claims, saying the archipelago is de facto independent and not a part of China.

Trump could use Taiwan as a chip when bargaining with Xi over issues like trade and tech curbs, though Secretary of State Marco Rubio has said the US will not abandon its longstanding support for Taiwan to reach a trade agreement.

Xi has renewed a push for the US to change its longstanding policy that it doesn’t support Taiwan’s independence. China has asked the Trump administration to officially declare that it “opposes” independence, a concession that would be a major diplomatic win for Beijing.

Adding to the recent Chinese media barrage, a Xinhua publication also posted an article on social media showing how the nation’s satellites can see every street in Taiwan. While that technology is nothing new, the post seemed like an attempt to intimidate the people of Taiwan considering the People’s Liberation Army has stepped up drills in the area in recent years.

When asked about the satellite issue at a briefing in Taipei with lawmakers, National Security Bureau head Tsai Ming-yen said Taiwan’s own images give it “a good grasp” of China’s military movements.

Underscoring its dislike of Taiwan’s ruling party, this week China also launched a criminal investigation of lawmaker Puma Shen. It was the first time police in the country kicked off such an inquiry into a member of a group it has labeled “die-hard Taiwan separatists.”

Many of the individuals are members of the Democratic Progressive Party, including Vice President Hsiao Bi-khim, and rarely if ever cross the strait separating the two sides, making China’s moves mostly symbolic. Bloomberg

Modi skipped summit due to worries Trump would mention Pakistan

By Sudhi Ranjan Sen

INDIAN Prime Minister Narendra Modi stayed away from a regional leaders summit in Malaysia this week to avoid meeting US President Donald Trump and having a possible discussion about Pakistan, people familiar with the matter said.

Officials in the government were apprehensive that Trump would repeat his claim that he mediated a ceasefire between India and Pakistan after a four-day armed conflict in May, the people said, asking not to be identified because the discussions are private. India has consistently denied Trump’s involvement.

Relations between India and the US have soured since the Pakistan conflict five months ago, with Trump slapping 50 percent tariffs on Indian exports in August, half of which is a penalty for the South Asian nation’s purchases of Russian oil. Trade negotiations have dragged on since then, without any clear sign of a deal yet.

The prime minister’s team didn’t see any clear outcomes from a possible bilateral meeting with Trump in Malaysia, the people said. A call between the two leaders last week hadn’t met New Delhi’s expectations, one of the people said.

India’s Ministry of External Affairs didn’t respond to a request for comment.

Modi is campaigning for his party in a crucial state election that kicks off next week, and he didn’t want to risk a meeting with Trump that could end up being embarrassing for the prime minister, the people said. Modi is the main face of his party’s campaign in Bihar state and any comments by Trump, especially

regarding Pakistan, could be used by the prime minister’s rivals against him and damage his party’s chances at the polls, they said.

Trump has insisted several times he played a pivotal role in ending hostilities between Pakistan and India, saying he deserves a Nobel Peace Prize for his effort in resolving that conflict and others. A key part of his trip to Malaysia’s capital Kuala Lumpur this week was to oversee the signing of a peace deal between Thailand and Cambodia.

On Tuesday, Trump again referred to his role in the India-Pakistan ceasefire, saying he’d prevented a possible nuclear war by using trade deals as a negotiating tool.

“I said to Prime Minister Modi, and I said to the Prime Minister, very nice man and very good man—and the Field Marshal over in Pakistan, I said ‘Look, we’re not going to do any trade if you’re going to be fighting,’” Trump said at an event in Tokyo.

The response was “No, no, no. One thing has nothing to do with the other,” the US president said. “I said, ‘It has a lot to do with the other.’” Modi’s absence IN contrast to India’s position, Pakistan has given Trump credit for securing a ceasefire and nominated him for the Nobel prize. The US president has, in turn, heaped

Trump has insisted several times he played a pivotal role in ending hostilities between Pakistan and India, saying he deserves a Nobel Peace Prize for his effort in resolving that conflict and others.

A key part of his trip to Malaysia’s capital Kuala Lumpur this week was to oversee the signing of a peace deal between Thailand and Cambodia.

praise on Pakistan’s Army Chief Asim Munir and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, who he called “great people” on Sunday.

Modi’s absence from the Association of Southeast Asian Nations summit in Kuala Lumpur was unusual. Since taking power in 2014, the prime minister has attended all the leaders’ meetings, except in 2022. In 2020 and 2021, the Asean summits were held virtually because of the Covid pandemic.

Modi and Trump previously shared a close bond, campaigning for each other in elections. That relationship has now been heavily criticized by Modi’s rivals, like Rahul Gandhi, a top leader in the main Indian National Congress opposition group. “PM Modi is frightened of Trump,” Gandhi said recently in a social media post highlighting the prime minister’s silence against Trump.

Ties between the two leaders went downhill after a tense 35-minute conversation in June where they directly discussed the conflict, Bloomberg News previously reported.

Modi and Trump have subsequently patched up, and spoken to each other

High-frequency trading triggers a showdown over a London rooftop

By Meg Short

FOR years, a drab building located just one mile past the skyscrapers of London’s Canary Wharf neighborhood has been the site of one of the fiercest battles in the world of high-frequency trading.

London Stock Exchange Group in 2023 moved the primary data center for its storied exchange business to the site. In order to allow traders to quickly transmit their bets between the iconic bourse and rivals like Intercontinental Exchange Inc., LSEG installed a radio on top of the data center that sends those trades moving at the speed of light.

vides a rare window into the secretive world of high-frequency trading firms, where technology that speeds up trades by less than one billionth of a second can mean the difference of millions of dollars.

install his devices on the rooftop of the firm’s data center. After spending months trying to make his case to the financial data giant, he took his findings to the FCA.

The conversations with LSEG were “a frank exchange,” Tyc said. “We believe that they were breaching competition law for a very long time.”

at least three times since September.   Despite those calls, Modi’s decision to skip the summit shows his hesitancy to engage directly with Trump, whose unpredictable comments in front of the media have led to embarrassing moments for other leaders, such as Ukraine’s Volodymyr Zelenskyy and South Africa’s Cyril Ramaphosa.

Trump has criticized India for its ties with Moscow, demanding it halt purchases of Russian oil, which he says is helping to finance President Vladimir Putin’s war in Ukraine. Trump has recently said India has indicated it will curb those purchases, allowing for a resumption in trade negotiations.   New Delhi hasn’t confirmed whether it will halt Russia oil buying, but US sanctions on two major Russian oil suppliers recently has forced Indian buyers to seek alternate sources.

Modi gave a virtual speech at the Asean summit on Sunday, instead. His foreign minister, Subrahmanyam Jaishankar, met US Secretary of State Marco Rubio in Kuala Lumpur on Monday, where the two discussed bilateral ties. Rubio earlier told reporters that the US’s relations with Pakistan don’t come at the expense of India.

Modi is scheduled to attend the Group of 20 leaders summit in Johannesburg next month, where he’ll have face time with leaders, people familiar with the matter said. They didn’t rule out the possibility that the prime minister and Trump could meet in coming months if trade talks progress.  With assistance from Justin Sink/ Bloomberg

the speed of light through air. But it wasn’t enough.

“This cannot overcome EWS’s latency advantage,” the FCA found. “The FCA is concerned that LSEG’s conduct may amount to an abuse of dominance.”

Past allegations

LSEG denied that its access to the rooftop location provides any advantage for Exchange Wireless Service. But given the amount of time spent reviewing “a minor aspect” of low latency connectivity services, the company said it offered the commitments to reassure the FCA and conclude the process.

Hegseth. . .

continued from A10

While there were warm words between the two countries’ leaders and defense ministers during this trip, in the past Trump has frequently complained about the security relationship between the US and Japan. Their mutual security treaty gives the US use of military bases around Japan—key assets in Washington’s ability to project power throughout the Asia-Pacific region. However, Trump has said the agreement is

The Qosh Tepa Canal underscores a truth as old as Mesopotamia: whoever controls the flow controls the future. The Philippines, surrounded by water yet increasingly short of it, must stop treating scarcity as a temporary inconvenience. Nations that manage water with foresight will endure. Those that do not will discover, too late, that neglect is the most dangerous current of all.

E-mail me at mangun@gmail.com. Follow me on Twitter @mangunonmarkets. PSE stock-market information and technical analysis provided by AAA Southeast Equities Inc.

depends on irrigation systems that lose nearly half their supply to inefficiency. Each drought turns the country from a rice producer into an importer, pushing food prices and inflation higher. The National Economic and Development Authority has warned that water scarcity threatens sustained growth as severely as any energy or fiscal crisis. Water is not merely a natural resource. It is the foundation of power and survival and the first test of a nation’s competence. It is more than nature’s gift; it is the measure of how societies endure.

unfair because it obliges the US to defend Japan without a reciprocal commitment from Japan to help protect the US.

Trump has also sought for Japan to pay more to support the upkeep of the US bases. Japan makes a commitment every five years to help cover those costs. Under the current deal, which runs through March 2027, Japan pledged to pay the US an average of ¥211 billion ($1.4 billion) each year. Talks over a new deal are expected to begin next year. With assistance from Takashi Umekawa/Bloomberg

It was a seemingly innocuous move, but it soon had Stéphane Tyc and Bob Meade crying foul. As the co-founders of McKay Brothers Communications—a company that manufactures the radios that connect high-frequency traders to exchanges around the world—Tyc and Meade have repeatedly sought access to the data center’s rooftop to install a device of their own, only to be shut down.

“They stood their ground,” Tyc said in an interview with Bloomberg. LSEG, he said, “decided that they could advantage their service which is, at the end of the day, what they did.”

LSEG has now begun to relent following an inquiry by the UK’s Financial Conduct Authority into whether the data giant was hindering competition. Without admitting wrongdoing, the company has agreed to make space available on the rooftop and allow all third parties to set up radio devices of their own in order to resolve the probe.

“These commitments have been made without prejudice to LSEG’s position that it has not infringed UK competition law and that the initial concerns that prompted the FCA to commence its investigation are unfounded,” LSEG said in a statement.

The saga is a win for McKay Brothers, which pursued a similar case in the US against the New York Stock Exchange and Nasdaq Inc. It also pro-

“If they can’t keep parity, they are gradually being picked off, and, to a certain extent, their strategies will fail,” said Larry Tabb, head of market structure research at Bloomberg Intelligence. “It’s a race to be faster than everyone but the real business is trying to keep up with everyone.”

Low-latency providers

FOR decades now, algorithms have slowly been taking the place of highoctane traders shouting their bids across a crowded exchange floor. The algorithms are constantly analyzing thousands of signals and churning out a steady stream of bets.

To pull that off, the firms behind these algorithms rely on so-called low latency connectivity services, or LLCS, to beam their trades via radio signals that stream across devices bolted to rooftops in financial hubs around the world.

That’s where LSEG and McKay Brothers come in. McKay builds towers and radios and commissions fiber assets to help trading firms route their orders faster. At LSEG, the firm’s low latency connectivity provider is known as Exchange Wireless Service.

In this corner of finance, proximity is everything. Firms obsess over the precise location of their infrastructure, with some even going as far as to carve a path through mountain rock—as portrayed in Michael Lewis’ Flash Boys—to guarantee their offering the speediest transmission rates.

That’s why Tyc was exasperated when LSEG wouldn’t allow him to

“The market for LLCS is competitive, and customers can choose between various low latency providers,” LSEG said in the statement. “LSEG has demonstrated that its own services do not benefit from any latency advantage due to location.”

FCA findings

RADIO signals travel at the speed of light through air—or 3.3366 nanoseconds per meter, according to the FCA. By comparison, though, data that has to travel through solid core fiber cable travels at about 4.87 nanoseconds per meter.

Each nanosecond equals one billionth of a second.

After a signal reaches the rooftop, the systems are designed to deliver that information to a so-called carrier room inside LSEG’s data center, which is how the low latency connectivity services providers access the exchange and transmit their trades.

When LSEG refused to allow its rivals to put their radios on its rooftop, they were forced to put their devices on top of a neighboring building, the FCA found. That meant their fiber cables must first traverse the rooftop of that building, the distance between the two buildings before reaching the carrier room.

LSEG’s rivals told the FCA they had invested in so-called hollowcore fiber cable—a more expensive option that can transmit data at

THIS is not the first time McKay Brothers has taken issue with a roof. In 2020, the company wrote a letter to the US Securities and Exchange Commission to complain about a data center in Mahwah, New Jersey, where the New York Stock Exchange was planning to install its radio devices 700 feet closer than where rivals were able to set up.

NYSE ultimately agreed to equalize the length of the fiber connection of its wireless services with those of commercial competitors. A representative for NYSE declined to comment.

McKay Brothers next targeted Nasdaq—only this time the crusade wasn’t just about opening up the exchange’s rooftop. The firm also wanted assurances that the exchange would ensure that all fiber routes into its facilities would be of equal length.

Nasdaq ultimately responded to the letter in 2021, but the SEC didn’t take further action on the matter. A spokesperson for the exchange declined to comment.

Tyc co-founded McKay Brothers in 2012 after spending nearly two decades at BNP Paribas SA in Paris, where he led the quant team globally. Tyc holds a doctorate in physics from Harvard University and is also the co-founder of Quincy Data, which bills itself as the leading microwave distributor of extremely low latency market data.

Meade also studied physics at Harvard and previously ran the highfrequency trading group at Ronin Capital. He spent four years as a research scientist at Massachusetts Institute of Technology, where he coauthored a book on electromagnetics, according to his LinkedIn.  With assistance from Katherine Doherty/Bloomberg

ADB TO LEND UP TO $1B FOR RE, OTHER ENERGY PRIORITIES

By Lenie Lectura @llectura

SINGAPORE—The Asian Develop-

ment Bank (ADB) may extend up to

$1 billion in financial aid, a big push for the Department of Energy (DOE)’s energy priorities that include grid strengthening, adoption of renewable energy, and deployment of energy efficiency technologies.

“Maybe even up to about a billion dollars, it can be. It’s just a lot of money, not small money. Because you need a lot of money when it comes to these large investments,” Priyantha Wijayatunga, senior director of ADB’s energy sector office, told reporters here.

Details are still being discussed with the DOE since “sovereign money will have to go through DOE,” he added.

Wijayatunga recognized the DOE’s concern on strengthening the power grid as it actively promotes offshore wind (OSW) technology.

“The Philippines is quite interested in developing their offshore wind and so if you want to bring offshore wind into the grid, you need grid

investments. Yeah, we are looking at strengthening your national grid…So, there is a request, as I know, to ADB to support. And how we are going to support, we have to work it out because it’s not government-owned,” he said. ADB is also determined to support the Philippines’s energy efficiency programs, particularly focusing on governmentowned buildings to start with.

“It’s going to be government buildings. So, energy efficiency in government buildings is another area where we are looking at. Of course, we have been helping the Philippines, you know, for decentralized power, more on a pilot scale, bringing in new technologies and so on. In the small communities, island communities, we have been supporting,” added the ADB official. In 2023, then DOE Secretary Raphael Lotilla strongly urged the private sector and development partners to invest and assist in energy infrastructure projects. He cited opportunities to synergize transmission lines with other infrastructure projects like bridges to lower the cost of building up parallel transmission lines.

BusinessMirror

3 agencies tie up to boost women’s peace initiatives

By Bless Aubrey Ogerio & Erwin James Gianan

FUNDING

and coordination mechanisms are already in scale to ensure that women play a more active and sustained role in peacebuilding efforts nationwide, according to government officials.

The Department of Budget and Management (DBM) and Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation, and Unity (OPAPRU) said their agencies, in partnership with the Philippine Commission on Women (PCW), are working to embed the Women, Peace and Security (WPS) agenda into government budgeting and local governance frameworks.

According to Presidential Peace Adviser Carlito Galvez Jr., the convergence among the three agencies has enabled the government to expand its resources for gender and peace-related programs.

Under the Pamana or Payapa at

Masaganang Pamayanan initiative, OPAPRU’s budget increased by P5 billion after coordination with the DBM and other agencies.

“With that, we were able to push forward our women’s agenda both in the field and at the national and international levels,” Galvez said at the Philippine Conference on WPS on Tuesday in Pasay City.

“We’re very thankful that our partnership with the DBM and PCW continues through the Center of Excellence in Women, Peace and Security.”

Involving local government units (LGUs) in peace and development programs was also a highlight, with

PHL condemns EJKs in landmark EU meeting

By Malou Talosig-Bartolome

IN a historic shift, the Philippines joined the European Union in condemning alleged extrajudicial killings and pledged to hold perpetrators accountable during the Fifth Subcommittee Meeting on Good Governance, Rule of Law, and Human Rights held on October 6 in Brussels. The joint statement, released weeks later, marks the first time the Philippine government has publicly aligned with the EU on this issue— a major departure from its previous stance during the Duterte administration.

“The EU and the Philippines underscored their strong condemnation of alleged extrajudicial killings and underscored the need to provide remedies for victims, fight impunity and hold perpetrators accountable,” the statement read. Justice and police reform THE Philippine delegation, led by DFA Assistant Secretary Deena Joy Amatong, presented updates on ongoing police and justice sector reforms. These included jail decongestion efforts and major steps toward establishing an independent National Forensic Institute. The EU welcomed the interim implementation of mandatory autopsies in suspicious death cases, pending formal legislation—a move seen as a concrete step toward transparency and justice. The Philippines also provided updates on the ongoing court case following the 2020 murder of Spanish citizen Diego Bello Lafuente, who was killed during a police anti-drug operation

in Siargao. The case has drawn international attention, especially after a Manila court denied bail to three police officers charged with his murder, citing strong evidence of abuse of authority and falsification of official reports.

Drug policy grounded in human rights

BOTH sides agreed on the importance of adopting a human rights-based approach to combating illegal drug use.

They emphasized the need to regularly review the effectiveness of drug policies and ensure alignment with international human rights standards.

The Philippines shared its efforts to develop a public health–centered framework, signaling a shift away from punitive models

toward more rehabilitative and rights-respecting strategies.

Press freedom, journalist safety

THE EU and the Philippines jointly deplored the killings of journalists and stressed the importance of protecting media workers.

The Philippines discussed actions taken in response to the reported deaths of Erwin “Boy Pana” Segovia, Juan “Johnny” Dayang, and Ali Macalintal.

Updates were also provided on the legal proceedings involving Nobel Peace Prize laureate Maria Ressa, whose cyber-libel conviction became a global symbol of press repression during the Duterte era.

Both sides affirmed their commitment to media pluralism and freedom of expression.

Galvez noting that projects are more likely to succeed when local actors take ownership.

“Based on our research, when LGUs are not involved, 70 percent of projects fail. But if they own it, they will sustain it,” he said, adding that women leaders and Indigenous Peoples’ groups are increasingly being engaged in various WPS and community programs.

Budget Secretary Amenah Pangandaman, for her part, said this year’s WPS Conference builds on the 2024 Pasay Declaration, which sought to institutionalize the WPS framework in governance and policymaking.

“We must not only narrate the success stories of our local WPS champions as agents of economic transformation, but amplify the voices, cries, and demands of women even further,” she said.

In her speech at the opening of the WPS conference on Tuesday, Pangandaman reiterated her continued support for the Women’s Budget, which allocates a minimum of 5 percent of the total annual budgets of all government agencies for gender programs, projects, and activities.

Pangandaman said that another

aim of this year’s WPS conference was to ensure that the agreements and commitments in the Pasay Declaration were being followed. The Pasay Declaration is the agreement adopted by representatives of member-states of the United Nations that participated in the International Conference on WPS in Pasay City on October 28 to 30, 2024.

This agreement aimed to strengthen prevention of genderbased violence, promote women’s leadership and participation in peace processes and security sector reforms, as well as enhance international collaboration to implement action under the WPS framework.

“We need that to trickle down to the local government units [LGUs]. And with that, we are also incorporating the open government partnership principles,” she added.

In the Philippines, Pangandaman said, WPS initiatives have started to manifest in LGUs and can be seen even in indigenous areas.

“In the Cordilleras, indigenous women leaders are preserving ancestral lands while promoting conflict-sensitive development. In

Russian couples and families are now ‘wintering’ in Boracay

By Ma. Stella F. Arnaldo Special to the BusinessMirror

RUSSIAN carrier IrAero Airlines made its first inaugural flight to Kalibo, Aklan on October 25, further firming up the air connection and tourism ties between Russia and the Philippines.

The Department of Tourism (DOT) and Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP), in separate news statements, said the flight carried 95 passengers traveling to Boracay Island. Many were young couples and families, according to Boracay stakeholders.

CAAP Director General (Ret.) Lt. Gen. Raul Del Rosario lauded the new service as a “milestone for regional connectivity, noting that the link will not only boost tourism in Western Visayas, but also promote cultural and economic exchanges between the two nations.”

For her part, DOT-Region 6 (Western Visayas) Crisanta Marlene P. Rodriguez told the BusinessMirror, “We’re projecting a modest yearend lift in Russian visitors to Boracay/ Western Visayas. Based on the announced twice-weekly schedule through December 31, our working estimate is about 2,600–3,600 incremental Russian arrivals before yearend, depending on actual aircraft capacity and load factors.”

She added that for 2026, based on the announced flights of the carrier up to March 2026, “We’re projecting the same number, and could stretch to 15,000-19,000 should they extend their service for a full year with twice weekly flights.”

Among top prepandemic visitors

DATA from the Malay Tourism Office showed that arrivals from Russia reached 14,669, exceeding the prepandemic arrivals of 12,784 in 2019. So the projected uptick in Russian visitors by yearend “complements the steady Russian presence we’ve seen post-reopening. And historically, pre-pandemic, Russia consistently ranked among Boracay’s Top 10-15 source markets of foreign visitors.” The DOT once considered Russia as an “opportunity market,” with an annual growth of 10 percent, but the crash of the ruble since 2014, as well as its ongoing war with Ukraine constrained their arrivals. Tourists from Russia in the Philippines was just 36,111 in 2019. On the nine months to September 2025,

Russian tourists in the Philippines reached 20,023, up 11.54 percent in the same period in 2024.

IrAero Airlines, which is based in Irkutsk, will operate scheduled flights between Irkutsk and Kalibo every Saturday until March 2026, with a brief layover in Guilin, China. A second weekly route, Khabarovsk–Kalibo launched on October 28, and will operate weekly every Tuesday until March 26, 2026, with technical stops in Blagoveshchensk, Russia and Ningbo, China. Some 100 passengers arrived on Tuesday.

Both flights will be operated using the Sukhoi Superjet 100 (SSJ100), a regional aircraft with a capacity of around 100 passengers. The service is timed with the harsh winter in Russia, which many of its nationals try to escape by going to tropical countries. Lake Baikal, anyone?

ACCORDING to Anex Tour, the leading destination management company in Russia, the top five destinations of Russians this coming winter are Thailand, Egypt, the United Arab Emirates, Sri Lanka, and Goa in India.

In a Viber message to this paper, Aklan Gov. Jose Enrique “Joen” Miraflores said he projects Russian visitors to reach “more than 15,000 by yearend. Based on data from January to September this year, we already received 10,000 visitors in Boracay.” He said with the new flights “our tourism and economic relations with Russia have been strengthened.”

At the welcome ceremony for the inaugural flight, Ambassador of the Russian Federation to the Philippines Marat Pavlov told local media of “the need to expand mutually beneficial cooperation, which could include not only increasing the tourist flow from Russia to the Philippines, but also providing Filipino tourists with the opportunity to see the beauty of our Motherland, including the unique Lake Baikal.”

There are currently no other flights between any Russian city and the Philippines, except through Asian hubs like Shanghai or Hong Kong, or the Middle East. Philippine Airlines (PAL) used to have charter flights between Vladivostok and several destinations in the Philippines including Kalibo and Cebu,

Editor: Jennifer A. Ng

Power generation segment lifts Q3 profit of Aboitiz unit

By Lenie Lectura @llectura

ABOITIZ Power Corp. reported on Wednesday that its net income rose by 5 percent year-on-year to P10.6 billion in July to September.

The power firm said its earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (Ebitda) stood at P22.2 billion in the third quarter, 12-percent higher than the P19.8 billion reported in the same period last year.

The company cited an increase in margins from its power generation segment, which was attributable to the company’s reduced exposure to the spot market, and

higher water inflow of its hydropower plants. As a result, net income after minority interests rose to P10.6 billion in the third quarter, 32-percent higher on a quarteron-quarter basis, and 5 percent higher versus the same period last year.

For the nine months ending September this year, AboitizPower generated P56.3 billon

in Ebitda, unchanged from the same period in 2024, as the fresh contributions from Chromite Gas Holdings Inc., and new solar plants—the 159-megawatt-peak (MWp) Laoag, Armenia (45MWp), and Calatrava (173 MWp)—were offset by lower spot market prices in January to September.

Core net income at end-September amounted to P23.1 billion compared to P27.2 billion in the same period in 2024. The core net income in nine months reflected the full impact of depreciation and interest expenses for GNPower Dinginin Ltd. Co. (GNPD), which AboitizPower began recognizing only in March 2024. Including forex and derivative gains, net income in January to September reached P23.3 billion. The company sold 32,138 gigawatt-hours (GWh) at end-September this year, up 19 percent from

26,910 GWh in the same period in 2024. However, due to lower spot market prices, the nine-month Ebitda of AboitizPower’s generation and retail supply business rose by only 1 percent to P50.9 billion.

The distribution business, meanwhile, posted P7 billion in Ebitda, up 2 percent due to higher volume. Energy sales went up by 5 percent to 5,166 GWh from 4,939 GWh in the same period in 2024.

Last March, AboitizPower said it allotted P78.1 billion in capital expenditure (capex) for 2025, majority of which will be used to expand its renewable energy (RE) portfolio, aligning with its goal of increasing its clean energy capacity to 4,600 MW by 2030.

The company said it will continue to make huge bets on RE. Last year it set aside 72 percent of its capex budget of P73 billion for clean energy projects.

Meralco buys more shares from SPNEC

By VG Cabuag @villygc

LEANDRO LEVISTE, the founder of listed SP New Energy Corp. (SPNEC), on Wednesday sold another 10.83 billion shares of the firm to the Manila Electric Co. (Meralco) for P13.76 billion.

The disposal of shares completes the previously announced sale of a chunk of his stake in SPNEC.

Leviste sold the shares to Meralco through a block sale on the Philippine Stock Exchange last Monday.

This fulfills the exchangeable note agreements executed between Meralco’s wholly-owned MGen Renewable Energy Inc. and Leviste’s wholly-owned Solar Philippines Power Project Holdings Inc. in September 2024 and March 2025, with the transaction now completed with the transfer of shares to Meralco.

The deal follows Leviste’s earlier sale of 3.77 billion SPNEC shares to Meralco for P4.5 billion, bringing his total divestments to Meralco to 14.61 billion shares for over P18.26 billion. As a result, Meralco’s ownership

in SPNEC has increased to 28.71 billion shares or 57.33 percent of SPNEC while Leviste’s ownership declined to 9.35 billion shares or 18.66 percent of the company’s common shares.

Leviste was elected Congressman of the 1st District of Batangas in May 2025. In June, he said he will divest his shares in SPNEC, with total proceeds expected at over P34 billion.

He is using the proceeds of his share sales in real estate and equity investments as well as his philanthropic activities.

Meralco has now invested over P34 billion in SPNEC, including P15.9 billion in primary shares to fund the construction of SPNEC’s 3,500-megawatt Terra Solar project in Nueva Ecija, the world’s single largest solar-battery project.

In 2024, SPNEC under Meralco’s leadership was able to raise the funding from banks and foreign investors for the P200 billion project, including the largest foreign investment for an infrastructure project in Philippine history. With reports from Lorenz S. Marasigan

Eternal Gardens to host family-friendly events this Undas 2025

AS families prepare to visit their dearly departed this Undas, Eternal Gardens, one of the country’s premier memorial park developers, invites everyone to spend the long weekend in a space of remembrance, reflection, and family bonding. This year, Eternal Gardens is once again bringing back, refined and better, its well-loved familyfriendly events across its parks, designed to make the observance of Undas both meaningful and heartwarming for visitors of all ages, including our beloved pets.

“Undas has always been a time of reflection, but it’s also a time for families to come together,” said Jose Antonio V. Rivera, Vice President for Sales and Marketing of Eternal Gardens. “At Eternal Gardens, we want our parks to be places where love and memories live on, where remembering our loved ones goes hand in hand with celebrating life and community.”

Recognizing pets as part of the family, Eternal Gardens will once again host the much-anticipated Eternal Paw Parade, where pets will walk the runway in Halloween-inspired costumes. The event will feature fun games and special treats, creating memories for both pets and their humans.

Children will also have something to look forward to at the Kids’ Halloween Party, which takes on a festive carnival theme this year. Kids will enjoy a lively program featuring a magic show, games, face painting, a photo booth, and loot bags filled with surprises. A special award will also be given to the best-dressed participant. Adding a deeper sense of mean -

‘Geothermal needs special treatment’

SINGAPORE —Energy Secretary Sharon Garin acknowledged last Tuesday that geothermal energy in the Philippines needs “special treatment” and that her office has taken steps to promote and support the so-called “unseen” and “undervalued” energy resource.

Heading the call of the country’s largest geothermal energy producer, Energy Development Corp. (EDC), a unit of Lopez-led First Gen Corp., Garin said during a press briefing here that there could be significant policy adjustments starting with providing longer development phase.

“It should be longer,” she said.

First Gen Vice President and head of Strategy and Planning Jay Soriano said here that the company is looking to hear from the Department of Energy (DOE) to include geothermal energy in the succeeding green energy auctions and, at the same time, expand the development phase to possibly seven years from three years.

Also, auction rates for geothermal that are set by the Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) should be more attractive to entice investors.

“That’s under ERC’s appreciation,” said Garin.

ing to the observance, Eternal Gardens invites visitors to take part in Share the Light, Share the Love, an initiative that encourages families to remember with love and give with purpose. By purchasing a candle, guests not only honor the memory of their departed loved ones but also help fund the community projects of the company’s partner local parishes. For those who enjoy a bit of adventure, Eternal Gardens will also hold the Find the Golden Box activity. A golden box will be placed somewhere within the park grounds, with hints shared through the official Eternal Gardens Facebook page. The first three visitors to locate the box will win special gifts from the company, adding a touch of excitement to the day’s activities.

True to its tradition of honoring the faithful departed, Eternal Gardens will also hold its annual All Saints’ Day Mass in all its parks nationwide. Families are encouraged to join this solemn celebration of faith and thanksgiving, as prayers are offered for the eternal repose of the souls of their loved ones.

Eternal Gardens will also observe Reflection Time, a period of quiet hours dedicated to prayer and remembrance. During this time, no loud music will be played and no events will take place, only silence, gentle footsteps, and the soft murmur of prayers. “These quiet hours are meant to give our visitors time to pause and truly reflect,” Rivera added. “We want to provide a balance, moments of joy and togetherness, and moments

of peace and remembrance.”

Outside these moments of stillness, families can enjoy the lineup of activities prepared by Eternal Gardens as a way to strengthen the bond among loved ones while keeping the memories of those who have gone before us alive. “Undas at Eternal Gardens is not just about looking back,” Rivera concluded. “It’s about celebrating the love that remains and cherishing the moments we continue to share, because love, after all, is eternal.”

For event schedules and parkspecific details, follow the Eternal Gardens Official Facebook Page for updates.

Eternal Gardens is part of the ALC Group of Companies, founded by the late Amb. Antonio L. Cabangon Chua and is currently chaired by D. Edgard A. Cabangon.

For the DOE’s part, Garin said her office is crafting its own position supposedly to be incorporated in a proposed measure that will strengthen and improve the development of geothermal energy in the Philippines.

“So, we’re already drafting now a proposal for a bill on geothermal specifically. Some can say it’s renewable while some say it’s not. I think it’s renewable, it’s one of our best assets, but it needs special treatment… give it more incentives. We want to encourage the industry then maybe give them more incentives.”

Moreover, the DOE is also pushing for funding for the conduct a gradiometric study for geothermal exploration to map subsurface density variations that can indicate the presence of geothermal resources.

“We’re also pushing for that to be funded so it will take a while. At least, when there’s more interest soon, at least we have the data for that,” said Garin.

Aside from these plans, the DOE is finalizing an agreement with the Land Bank of the Philippines for the Asian Development Bank-funded geothermal de-risking facility. “Soon enough, we will have that. Those things, hopefully, would encourage more developers to embark on geothermal.”

The de-risking tool, which is targeted to be rolled out next year, offers cost-shared exploration support to developers, possibly covering up to 50 percent of drilling costs through convertible loans. The DOE said that if drilling efforts are futile, the funding will be converted into grants. Lenie Lectura

Delivery Hero, groups distribute meals to 500 beneficiaries

DELIVERY Hero Philippines

Inc., the company that operates the online food and grocery platform, Foodpanda, said it has partnered with several groups for month-long outreach initiatives in Metro Manila in celebration of World Food Day.

In Quezon City, Foodpanda joined forces with Scholars of Sustenance (SOS) Philippines to address both hunger and food waste by delivering meals to 500 beneficiaries from communities facing involuntary hunger.

SOS Philippines, a non-profit environmental organization, rescues surplus food and transforms it into nourishing meals through its Rescue Kitchen initiative. The initiative which was supported by Foodpanda in advancing the UN Sustainable Development Goal of Zero Hunger.

Foodpanda employees also volunteered to prepare, cook, and distribute meals to families in Pook Malinis, Quezon City, as well as to Foodpanda riders in the area.

“Through our partnership with Foodpanda, surplus food that would otherwise go to landfills is turned into nourishing meals for communities in need. Together, we’re proving that sustainability and compassion can go hand in hand,” Bianca Alar-

con, executive affairs management officer of SOS Philippines, said.

In Taguig, meanwhile, Foodpanda extended its support to the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology NCR Taguig Women’s Dormitory. It distributed food packs, hygiene kits and other essentials for a month’s supply to imprisoned women. The BJMP also celebrated its National Correctional Consciousness Week.

The prison runs rehabilitation programs, including education, vocational training, religious, sports and counseling activities, to prepare prisoners for reintegration into society.

The initiative sought to provide comfort and restore dignity among women who often have limited access to basic necessities.

“Foodpanda celebrating World Food Day just feels right at home,” Lew Lopez, Foodpanda’s director of public relations and Public Affairs, said.

“Our name has always been about food, but more than that, it’s about care and connection. Through this effort, we’re reminded that food doesn’t just fill plates—it builds communities. This World Food Day, we wanted to do our part by making sure everyone has a seat at the table.” VG Cabuag

Banking&Finance

AI and MarTech

Marketing Association of the Philippines (BMAP), in collaboration with Xoxoday (Nreach Online Services Pvt. Ltd.), Hungry Workhorse Consultancy Inc. and Insider (Sosyo Plus Bilgi Bilişim Tekn. Dan. Hiz. Tic. A.Ş.), recently hosted an exclusive roundtable forum titled “C-Suite Exchange: Harnessing AI and MarTech for growth, at the Ascendion, Ayala North Exchange in Makati. The event brought together senior executives from banking, insurance, financing companies and local chambers of commerce to explore how artificial intelligence (AI) and marketing technology (MarTech) are transforming customer engagement, loyalty and growth in the financial services industry.

Subject matter experts

DELIVERING the opening keynote, titled “Vision for the Future of AI, Loyalty and MarTech in Banking,” was Rey Lugtu, founder and CEO of Hungry Workhorse. He framed the convergence of technology, customer engagement and loyalty ecosystems. Rey discussed how AI and MarTech are driving transformation and competitiveness in the financial sector.

Rahul Singh, Country Leader of Change Healthcare, shared insights on “Driving Business Growth through Data-Driven Customer Understanding” and shared real-world examples from leading brands that turned customer insights into measurable business outcomes.

Xoxoday APAC Regional Head

DM Varun talked about “The Future of Loyalty—AI, MarTech and Banking” and revealed how loyalty programs have evolved beyond traditional point systems to build deeper trust, retention and financial inclusion.

Completing the topic roundup was Insider’s SEA & GCR Regional Managing Director Jack Nguyen, who led the session “From Data to 100x ROI— Powering Personalized Banking Journeys with Customer Data and Experience (CDxP).” He discussed how banks can leverage CDxP to deliver personalized

Ecustomer experiences, enhance segmentation and achieve measurable ROI. CDxP helps resolve fragmented tech stack to make it unify data, omni-channel engagement in one platform. He also presented real use cases of CDxP from top banks with millions of active users.

Key takeaways

XOXODAY’S DM Varum said: n In the Philippines, solution providers work out by adjusting to the market’s purchasing power and because of people on the ground.

Insider’s Commercial Director Prince Datu further added:

n Data is data and is just information. The question is, how to manage that information to benefit everyone?

Summarizing the roundtable was Kay Lugtu of Hungry Workhorse. She emphasized the relevance of the topics discussed as follows:

n Using a productivity tool that has AI already embedded as a way of starting the AI journey.

n All the capabilities of AI and MarTech are available and are not heavy investments, but something we can use to forge more engagement with customers and employees who are already digital natives and should be relayed at an understandable level.

n We can harness business growth by looking at the capabilities of AI and MarTech.

Kay also hoped that something transformative would come from the event. “This event is a snippet, coming from BMAP, on how loyalty, AI and Marketing Tech come together in the quest for business growth,” she said.

Thank you!

BMAP thanks the participants of the event and its collaboration partners Xoxoday and Hungry Workhorse and Insider for sponsoring this learning session.

Eric Montelibano is a Consultant of Integrated Marketing and Communications at CSBank (Citystate Savings Bank) and the President of the Bank Marketing Association of the Philippines (BMAP). He can be reached at erichmontelibano@gmail.com. The writer’s views and his written piece do not necessarily reflect those of the B usiness M irror and the BMAP.

No ratings downgrade only if debt managed well—exec

By Reine Juvierre Alberto @reine_alberto

WHILE the Philippines managed to maintain its credit rating despite pandemicera borrowings and its firm stance on no new taxes, fiscal pressure remains a concern, according to an executive of the country’s largest lender.

In a discussion with the BusinessMirror last Tuesday, BDO Capital & Investment Corp. President Eduardo V. Francisco said the country’s financials prior to the year 2020 were strong, “which even led to a credit rating upgrade.”

But when the Covid-19 disease caused an outbreak, the country had to borrow funds to bankroll its projects and programs to cushion the impact of the pandemic.

Francisco said at that time, he was initially “worried we might get downgraded.”

“But we managed to maintain our rating. Still, we’ve been financially strained since then,” he told the BusinessMirror.

With the country’s increasing debt now at P17.468 trillion, Francisco said the government should spend more judiciously and reduce corruption and leakages.

“My concern is that, from a credit rating perspective, our financial standing might not look too good,” he said. “I don’t think we will get a

DBM eyes fixed cap on

By Mary Jane Gale Jadormio Intern

THE Department of Budget and Management (DBM) is pushing for a fixed cap on unprogrammed appropriations (UAs) by as much as 5 percent to limit the budget item’s expansion during congressional deliberations.

According to Budget and Management Assistant Secretary Romeo Matthew T. Balanquit, the cap is included in the Marcos government’s

By VG Cabuag @villygc

THE Ayala Land Inc. (ALI) announced having raised P15 billion through the issuance of sustainability-linked bonds, the fourth tranche under its P50-billion debt securities program.

The debt was listed at the Philippine Dealing and Exchange Corp. last Wednesday.

The offering includes 5-Year Series C SLB due 2030 with a fixed rate of 6.0671 percent per annum and 10Year Series D SLB due 2035 at 6.3192 percent per annum.

The paper were linked to Ayala

proposed version of the Philippine Budgeting Code.

Finance Secretary Ralph G. Recto earlier said while the UA limit at 5 percent would be “too high,” it could also offer excessive fiscal flexibility.

But Recto also emphasized that while UAs are vital in emergency response, their release should undergo strict triggers and should not serve as a pool for off-budget spending.

Balanquit explained that UAs exist mainly to fund foreign-assisted projects that receive final approval

Land’s achievement of two key sustainability targets, including a 42 percent reduction in greenhouse gas emissions across its malls, offices, and hotels by 2030, and EDGE Zero Carbon certification for 1.5 million square meters of office space by the end of 2025.

“With this issuance, we have raised a total of P56 billion or approximately $1 billion—a milestone that reflects our collective progress in integrating sustainability into the way we fund growth. This issuance completes our debt funding plan for 2025,” Ayala Land CFO Jose Eduardo A. Quimpo II said.

downgrade as long as our debt-toGDP is still manageable.”

The country’s debt-to-GDP, or the outstanding debt as a share of the overall economy (gross domestic product), jumped to 63.1 percent in the second quarter of this year from 60.9 percent in the same period a year ago.

Francisco, who is also the executive vice president of BDO Unibank Inc., said the government’s stance of not imposing new taxes so that Filipinos wouldn’t have a hard time is commendable.

The Capital Market Efficiency Promotion Act is also seen as a positive step to stimulate growth and strengthen capital markets.

However, Francisco said the “challenge” is that if there is no revenue, “it’s difficult to move forward. Investments are also relatively low.”

BDO Unibank Executive Vice President and Head of Institutional

Banking Charles M. Rodriguez said that recent headwinds, both domestically and externally, will not necessarily cause a credit rating downgrade for the Philippines.

and only after the DBM has submitted the annual budget to Congress.

“Wala siyang ‘bahay,’” he said adding that without a UA line, shovelready projects would have no budget allocation for the following year.

The DBM noted that a UA item often expands during budget deliberations in Congress.

“Now, somehow, down the line, when we submit our budget with a UA, it comes back to us doubled or tripled under the GAA,” Balanquit said partly in Filipino. He believes the

Around 60 percent of the proceeds will be used to refinance existing debt, while the remaining 40 percent will support capital expenditures for key projects, including the redevelopment of the BPI Headquarters in Makati, the transformation of Greenbelt 1 and the development of Ayala Malls Evo City in Cavite.

The BPI redevelopment will feature a 45-storey energy-efficient tower integrated with the new Dela Rosa Gardens, a green park within Makati’s “Emerald Network.”

Meanwhile, Greenbelt 1 is set to be reimagined as a modern lifestyle destination with sustainability fea-

“Because there are concerns, right? We created doubts to ourselves because of what’s happening,” Rodriguez said. Still, the economy is propped up by strong domestic consumption, even in local tourism, Rodriguez added.

Finance Secretary Ralph G. Recto earlier said that the Philippines could have finally clinched an “A” credit rating from Standard & Poor’s (S&P) Global this year. However, allegations of corruption in the use of billions of pesos of taxpayer money in government’s flood control projects derailed the upgrade.

The S&P affirmed the Philippines’ BBB+ credit rating and upgraded its outlook to “Positive” from “Stable” in November last year.

Having an “A” credit rating indicates strong investor confidence, affirms the country’s progress in fiscal management and reduces borrowing costs, among others.

So far, the Philippines secured an “A-” rating with “Stable” outlook from Rating and Investment Information Inc. and Japan Credit Rating Agency.

cap will prevent discretion-based increases during budget amendments by lawmakers.

Balanquit believes said the Budget Modernization Bill, a priority measure of the Legislative–Executive Development Advisory Council, may be passed by the 20th Congress. He also clarified that UAs are not automatically released despite being listed in the GAA, as they depend solely on excess revenue or proceeds from new tax measures or privatization.

tures such as skylights and rainwater collection systems.

“ALI continues to raise the bar with initiatives that truly integrates sustainability and innovation into business group,” PDEx president Stephanie Marie Zulueta said.

“Together, we affirm that sustainable finance is not only viable but essential to building a better future,” Quimpo said.

“Your support empowers us to pursue projects that drive progress, uplift communities and create a lasting positive impact as we continue to build more places that people love,” he said.

By Rizal Raoul S. Reyes @brownindio

XECUTIVES of Uno Digital

Bank Inc. cited the commitment the company to security, claiming a “solid and robust” cybersecurity infrastructure and “multilayered defense” According to Unobank Chief Technology Officer “Chito” Africa, they are serious with security “not as an afterthought but embedded in each layer, starting right from the user channel.”

Africa pointed out the defensein-depth approach incorporates strong security core measures across the board.

“Unobank’s perimeter security maintains traditional yet essential defenses like firewalls—both network physical firewalls and web application firewalls—[that] are critical for preventing direct cyberattacks, “ Africa said.

Recognizing that many incidents are targeted toward social engineering,

Africa claims the company is “hyper-vigilant” in monitoring its systems.

“This means highlighting a crucial understanding that technology alone isn’t enough; customer awareness and protection against deception are paramount,” he added.

According to Africa, Unobank has embedded artificial intelligence (AI) in its tools. He said AI is instrumental in identifying and analyzing customer profiles and backgrounds, enabling the bank to detect and preemptively address unusual or suspicious behavior that could indicate a security threat.

“It’s a tight balance but we have to implement it,” Uno Digital Bank Founder Manish Bhai said in a news briefing last Wednesday. Bhai was referring to the “critical choice between security and convenience.” Bhai said his vision is “clearly focused on empowering customers and helping them conduct transactions in the most seamless manner possible.”

Given the high smartphone and

internet penetration in the Philippines, he said Uno Digital Bank’s market strategy will put emphasis on the mobile phone as the primary interface for the seamless experience. The bank’s model, Bhai said, is “predicated on providing one trusted digital interface (the mobile app) that allows users to save, borrow, transact, invest, and protect their finances with speed and ease.”

“This full-spectrum approach, combined with a commitment to simplicity, is how the bank intends to elevate the customer experience,” he added.

By building its entire infrastructure on the cloud and making all processes digital, end-to-end, Bhai said the bank enables customers to perform all transactions directly on their mobile phones. He said the commitment to an accessible, mobile-first, and highly secured environment “epitomizes [our] strategy, demonstrating that through careful, layered security architecture and AI.”

➔ Metrobank PHL’s ‘strongest bank’ THE Metropolitan Bank & Trust Co. (Metrobank) announced recently it has once again been recognized as the “Strongest Bank in the Philippines” for 2025 by Singapore-headquartered TAB Global Pte. Ltd., “reaffirming its industry leadership for the fifth consecutive year.” The annual ranking evaluates a thousand banks in the world based on their financial performance for the 2025 fiscal year. According to TAB Global, “Metrobank deserved the award because of its ‘robust balance sheet, high asset quality, solid capital base, and strong liquidity, hallmarks of sound management and resilience amid changing market conditions.’” “This recognition reflects the strength of the relationships we have built with our clients, communities, and partners,” Metrobank President Fabian S. Dee said.

➔ Chinabank receives awards from ICD

THE China Banking Corp. (Chinabank) announced last Monday it earned four “Golden Arrow” awards, a citation for its governance efforts, from the Institute of Corporate Directors. During the awarding ceremony, Chinabank and seven other SM Group companies were honored, underscoring the conglomerate’s commitment to world-class governance. Since 2019, the ICD has consistently distinguished Chinabank’s governance excellence, reinforcing the bank’s reputation for

Govt tweaks strategy for construction of FMRs

construction costs.

TBy Ada Pelonia @adapelonia

HE Department of Agriculture (DA) will take over the development of farm-to-market roads (FMRs) from the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) starting next year.

Agriculture Secretary Francisco

Tiu Laurel Jr. met with DPWH

Secretary Vince Dizon last Tuesday to review audits of previous FMR projects to assess whether any schemes were “compromised.”

The DA said their discussion also covered pending projects

slated for 2025, which the DPWH proposed to complete under a catch-up plan.

“These roads are badly needed by our farmers and fisherfolk. They will ease livelihoods, lower production costs, and give farmers more time with their families.”

The agency noted that this move signals a more focused approach to agricultural lifelines, ensuring every kilometer built directly supports farming communities.

For his part, the DPWH chief said there remain roughly 1,000 kilometers of FMRs that will have to be built this year.

“We must think outside the

box to ensure these roads are completed as quickly as possible.

Local government units will be engaged, similar to our approach with classrooms.”

The DA said it is preparing for the DPWH handover next year, following President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s directive to deliver infrastructure swiftly and at the right cost.

The 2025 catch-up plan will serve as the blueprint for how the DA will undertake the road projects.

Meanwhile, the DA chief underscored during a recent Senate hearing a new technology that could significantly cut FMR

PSA: Local planters produce more peanuts in 3 years

THE country’s selfsufficiency in peanuts averaged 98 percent in the past three years on the back of enhanced cultural management practices and better market access, a ranking official said.

Data from the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) showed that the country’s peanuts self-sufficiency ratio (SSR) surged to 98.4 percent in 2024.

The SSR of the crop has averaged 98 percent since 2022, or 70 percentage points higher than the 28.5 percent posted in 2021.

The latest figure was the highest recorded SSR in peanuts since the time series began in 1988, based on data from the state statistics agency.

“SSR shows the magnitude of production in relation to domestic utilization. It indicates the extent to which a country relies on its own production resources,” the PSA said.

Agriculture Undersecretary Cheryl Marie NatividadCaballero noted that the rise in peanuts SSR was a “continuous process improvement” on the part of the High Value Crops Development Program (HVCDP).

“This includes improved cultural management at the farm level and access to better markets,” Caballero told the BusinessMirror on Wednesday.

She added that complementary support from

local government units (LGUs) and the provision of planting materials, particularly from DA Region 2, helped boost output.

For local governments, Caballero noted that LGUs prioritized and invested in peanut-producing municipalities.

“Peanut is also encouraged to be planted after rice for higher nitrogen fixation in soil, which may result to better yields.”

Despite the spike in peanuts SSR, the country’s production dipped by 2.84 percent to 30,953

metric tons (MT) last year from 31,860 MT in 2023.

However, figures from the PSA indicated that peanut output has steadily increased since it breached the 30,000-MT mark in 2021 from the average 29,000 MT since the time series began in 2010.

The Department of Agriculture (DA) said the demand for peanut is increasing as it is regarded as a nutritious snack. It also serves as a key ingredient in Filipino dishes and candies and biscuits.

In 2019, the major peanutproducing regions were Ilocos Region, Cagayan Valley, Northern Mindanao, Western Visayas and Central Luzon. Ilocos Region produced nearly half of the overall peanut output during that time, the agency said.

According to the DA, potential investment options along the crop’s value chain include seed production, fresh and raw production, processing into butter and oil, trading, consolidation, and marketing.

Ada Pelonia

Earlier, he proposed redesigning road dimensions, such as narrower roadways of 3 meters instead of 5 meters, with shoulders every 300 meters to facilitate traffic movement. Such changes could reduce costs and expedite the construction of more roads.

He noted that the overall backlog of FMR projects stands at 60,000 kilometers, which he said would take six decades to complete at the current pace.

Aside from local governments, the DA said it will also coordinate with National Defense Secretary Gilbert

Teodoro to enlist the Army Corps of Engineers in the effort.

Regarding the audit, the DPWH chief said nearly 1,000 kilometers of the over 4,000 kilometers of recently constructed FMRs were inspected by the DA. Of these, Dizon said cases may be filed with the Ombudsman and the Independent Commission on Infrastructure (ICI) to hold unscrupulous contractors and officials accountable.

The DA said FMR is “a crucial infrastructure that drives rural economies and lowers production costs for farmers.”

PHL forest cover expands in 5 years–FAO report

THE total forest cover of the Philippines widened in five years mainly due to a policy that banned cutting and harvesting of timber in natural and residual forests, according to a report released by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO).

In its “Global Forest Resources Assessment 2025,” FAO noted that the total forest cover of the Philippines in 2020 increased by 212,241 hectares to 7.226 million hectares from 7.014 hectares in 2015.

“Out of the total forest area in 2020, 2.22 million hectares [30.7 percent] is Closed Forest [with canopy coverage of more than 40 percent]; 4.69 million hectares [65 percent] is Open Forest[with canopy coverage of 10-40 percent]; and 0.311 million hectares [4.3 percent] is mangrove forest,” the report read.

Among the three major forest types, FAO said a significant increase in Closed forests was observed while there was a steady to slight increase in Open and Mangrove forest.

FAO said the Philippine government defined “closed forests” as formation where trees in various storeys and undergrowth cover a high proportion of the ground and do not have a continuous dense grass layer.

Meanwhile, open forests are “formations with discontinuous tree layer with coverage of at least 10 percent and less than 40 percent. They are either managed or unmanaged forests, in initial state of succession.”

“It is worth mentioning that prior to Year 2011, the Philippine government allowed the harvesting of trees in the

natural and residual forests of the country, that explains the decreased of forest cover of the country from Reporting Year 1990 to 2010,” the report read.

However, in February 2011, the President of the Philippines issued relevant directives like the Executive Order (EO) 23 which declared a moratorium on the cutting and harvesting of timber in the natural and residual forests and created the antiillegal logging task force.

The government also issued EO 26 to implement the National Greening Program and EO 193 which expanded the coverage of the National Greening Program to cover the rehabilitation of all the remaining denuded and degraded forestlands not covered by EO 26 and extended the period of the program up to 2028.

“The combined effort of rehabilitating the open and degraded forestlands of the country coupled with the intensified forest protection initiatives contributed to the increasing trend of the forest from 2011 onwards.”

The report also noted that deforestation slowed in all of the world’s regions in the last decade.

The latest data showed that forests cover 4.14 billion hectares—about one-third of the planet’s land area. In addition to slowing deforestation rates, the report highlighted further positive news for the world’s forests, which includes more than half of forests now covered by long-term management plans, and one fifth of forests now being within legally established protected areas. Ada Pelonia

China purchases first cargoes of US soybeans this season

CHINA has bought at least two cargoes of US soybeans, its first known purchase this season, which may mark a revival of flows as part of a wider settlement expected to be agreed between the two biggest economies this week.

The shipments are booked for loading and possible delivery later this year, according to people familiar with the matter. They asked not to be named as they are not authorized to speak to media.

Chinese and US officials reached a broad framework agreement over the weekend in Malaysia, paving the way for Chinese leader Xi Jinping and US President Donald Trump to finalize a trade deal that would roll back many of the tariffs, fees, and export restrictions threatened or implemented in recent weeks. The two are due to meet on Thursday. Beijing had shunned US

soybeans so far this export season, using the commodity as a bargaining chip in its trade war with Washington.

Chinese crushers turned instead to South America for record shipments and have built ample supplies. But the diversification also exposed them to higher costs and weather-related risks.

US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent had said that he expected the Asian nation to make “substantial” soybean purchases after American and Chinese negotiators came to terms on a range of contentious points at talks over the weekend.

An agreement between the world’s two biggest economies could restart a trade that was worth more than $12 billion last year, reopening access to the world’s largest consumer of soybeans to US growers who have faced prolonged financial strain.

“The news is no doubt positive, but the markets will be waiting to see what are

the details of the agreement,” said Chris Nikolaou, general manager of Advantage Grain,

an Australian agricultural marketing company.

“It’s definitely good for international demand, producers and the Chinese consumers.”

Grains traders have been optimistic that China and the US would reach an agreement this week on agricultural products, prompting a rise in soybean prices in Chicago. However, they remain cautious about how much American soy China will actually buy this season.

It’s unclear if China will commit to fixed volumes of US soybeans, and there’s uncertainty over how any deal would be implemented.

With Chinese soymeal prices still weak, even a rollback of tariffs to pre–trade war levels may not make it profitable for Chinese crushers to take American beans, the people said.

A resurgence in imports

from what was previously China’s second-largest source of soybeans could help reduce costs. However, a sudden influx of cargoes from the US could put additional pressure on prices of processed products such as soybean meal. American shipments of corn and wheat to China have also plunged to almost zero as Beijing restricted imports to protect farmers.

China’s appetite for US soybeans may also be tempered as the world’s second-largest economy struggles to regain growth momentum, limiting demand for animal feed and food. Moreover, Beijing’s longterm strategy to diversify suppliers and reduce reliance on the US is expected to remain in place.

Traders remained cautious. Chicago soybean futures were down 0.7 percent at $10.88 per bushel as of 5:14 p.m. in Singapore. Bloomberg

SEVENTY-year-old Yoly sells boiled peanuts, a traditional Filipino snack, along the Elliptical Road near the Quezon City Hall on Wednesday (April 26, 2023). Yoly has been selling boiled peanuts for decades to provide for her family. (PNA PHOTO BY ROBERT OSWALD P. ALFILER)

World Companies

High cocoa costs put chocolate makers on edge for Halloween

HALLOWEEN is shaping up to be a test for the chocolate industry, as high cocoa costs threaten to accelerate a consumer shift toward cheaper and trendier sweets such as sour gummies.

For candy makers, Halloween remains crucial—the holiday made up nearly 18 percent of annual US candy sales last year, second only to Christmas. But chocolate makers have been passing along costlier input prices to consumers, and that’s leaving an opening for rivals—who have already seen a shift toward non-chocolate treats—to grab more market share.

It’s the latest example of demand destruction as the chocolate industry is grappling with high prices amid a precarious supply outlook. While cocoa futures in New York have slumped about 50 percent from a record set in December, they’re still historically elevated. Chocolate makers are hoping nostalgia during the Halloween season can offset the broader shift away from their products.

“Chocolate is chocolate,” said David Branch, a sector manager at Wells Fargo Agri-Food Institute.

BOEING Co. announced a $4.9 billion accounting charge and delayed debut for its 777X jetliner, a reminder of the long recovery ahead for the US planemaker even as rising aircraft deliveries bolster its cash.

The non-cash writedown, which was previously reported by Bloomberg News, overshadowed thirdquarter earnings, with a $7.47 loss per share that was wider than the $4.44 deficit predicted by analysts. Revenue was $23.27 billion, compared with the $22.3 billion average estimate.

“We’re seeing less sales away from holidays and more sales during holidays. People are not buying it all the time, but when they want it, they want it.” The problem is that, increasingly, they’re wanting it less often. Chocolate candy volumes dropped 6 percent in the 12 weeks ending October 5, as the average price per pound jumped nearly 14 percent, according to data from consumer research firm Circana. Meanwhile, sales volumes for non-chocolate Halloween-themed candy—think Haribo sour gummy bats—rose 8.3 percent during the same period.

“I feel like it’s a weekly game between chocolate and non-chocolate, who’s winning that race,” said Sally Lyons Wyatt, Circana’s chief adviser for consumer goods and foodservice insights. Shoppers are still embracing chocolate despite the price increases, she said, but “it’s a jump ball

almost between who’s going to get the shares right now.”

More than half of shoppers said they would prioritize gummy candies in their Halloween spending, and just shy of half said the same for hard candies, NielsenIQ researchers found.

Sugarfina, where gummies make up about 85 percent of its offerings, is selling out its product lines at a faster pace than last year, including a new tangerine-flavored “super sour” star that was gone by mid-October, according to Chief Executive Officer Scott LaPorta. The profitability of gummies has increased relative to chocolate as cocoa costs have risen, he added.

Haribo, best known for its gummy bears, is also seeing higher demand this year, said Hannah Curlee, the company’s seasonal brand manager. Higher chocolate prices have played a role, but gummies also provide a “seasonal creativity that chocolate can’t always match,” Curlee said.

Chocolate companies are fighting back with more promotions and seasonal offerings. They’re also taking action to keep prices down, using nuts and creams to cut back on costly cocoa ingredients.

Some of the biggest companies are stretching their broader portfolios. At Mondelez International Inc., owner of the Cadbury and Toblerone

brands, gummies are the priority in the American market, said Chantal Butler, president of the company’s US confectionery segment. Limited-time offerings like Halloweenthemed Sour Patch Kids and Oreos “contribute significantly to the demand we see this time of year,” she added.

Hershey Co. has new Halloween flavors and packaging in the gummy product lineup it launched last year in partnership with Shaquille O’Neal. That’s alongside ghost-shaped Twizzlers and “trickies” Jolly Rancher gummies with colors that don’t always line up with the expected flavors. Sugar-based sweet sales are stacking on top of chocolate sales, with few consumers explicitly choosing one over the other, according to a Hershey spokesperson.

Guittard Chocolate Co., a California-based chocolate company that sells largely to specialty candymakers, expects Halloween demand to be consistent with past years even as the industry works through cocoa supplies purchased earlier this year at much higher prices.

Some confectioners are coming out with new products to “take some of the pressure off” but consumers also require consistency in their favorite products—even at higher costs, said CEO Gary Guittard. Bloomberg News

THE used-car industry isn’t exactly on firm footing, going by recent events. A major lender went bust just before a big parts supplier followed suit. Loan delinquencies have skyrocketed, car prices remain high and the lowerend consumer is showing signs of buckling.

Then there’s Carvana Co. The online retailer has delivered several strong quarters of earnings by cutting costs, restructuring debt and slowing a breakneck expansion. Its shares have rallied 78 percent this year, pushing its rebound from a rout in 2022 to 9,000 percent.

The stock now trades at 53 times earnings, far more richly than competitors like CarMax Inc. or Lithia Motors Inc., setting up a precarious event for investors ahead of the Tempe, Arizona-based company’s earnings report after the bell Wednesday. Analysts expect the company to deliver an adjusted profit of $1.32 per share, more than doubling from a year ago, on a 40-percent rise in sales to $5.11 billion. Profit margins are forecast to be about 21.4 percent, a contraction over the yearago quarter.

“With expectations sky-high and the stock already up sharply, this quarter is all about proving margins can expand without volume cracking,” said Dave Mazza, chief executive officer of Roundhill Financial.

“Any stumble in guidance, and momentum traders could hit reverse just as fast as they hit the gas.”

There are reasons for concern beyond a valuation that is more in line with a tech growth stock than a car reseller. The company’s customer base is showing signs of economic stress as the labor market weakens and prices for consumer goods continue to rise faster than Federal Reserve officials would like.

“There has been nothing but bad news recently on the auto sector when it comes to the low-end consumer,” Matt Maley, chief market strategist at Miller Tabak + Co. LLC, said.

Analysts remain generally bullish that Carvana can deliver, though, with just two of 23 tracked by Bloomberg recommending to sell the shares. The average price target of $423 is 17 percent above where the shares closed Tuesday.

“Evidence continues to mount that Carvana is in the early stages of a strong feedback loop as it scales,” William Blair’s Sharon Zackfia wrote in a note. She anticipates another record report and increased her prediction for used cars sold to hit 154,500, above the consensus estimate of roughly 151,000.

Jefferies analysts led by John Colantuoni wrote that Carvana is best positioned to benefit from a shift toward digital car-buying within the $800 billion used vehicle market. Used cars have also become relatively more attractive after President Donald Trump’s tariffs helped push the average price tag for a new car past $50,000.

Carvana investors have been on a wild ride since the company captured public attention during the pandemic and then 2021’s meme-stock frenzy. The stock surged nearly 1,200 percent from the Covid-hit lows in 2020 to its 2021 high, before plunging 98 percent in 2022’s bear market, leaving the shares trading like a penny stock.

“We are now moving forward with a higher confidence plan and taking steps to improve our performance,” Ortberg, who has been in the job for little over a year, said in a memo to employees.

Boeing shares were little changed in premarket trading in New York.

The planemaker has recorded almost $16 billion in total charges for the 777X, a strategically important aircraft that is running seven years behind schedule amid tough regulatory scrutiny and is now scheduled to enter service in 2027. The latest charge shows how Chief Executive Officer Kelly Ortberg still faces multiple challenges to stabilize the company, even as Boeing benefits from surging aircraft orders with support from the Trump administration.

IT took executives at Cracker Barrel Old Country Store Inc. eight days to reverse their controversial decision to overhaul their logo. It’s taking far longer to undo the damage.

Two months after Uncle Herschel was inserted back into the logo, shares of the restaurant chain keep falling, day after day, bringing its total wipeout this year to about 32 percent. That puts it on the cusp of eclipsing its 36 percent plunge during the financial crisis in 2008.

Chief Executive Officer Julie Felss Masino had removed the overalls-clad character as part of her push to revive a fading 50-year-old brand. It did the complete opposite. Loyal diners, conservative activists and even President Donald Trump lashed out on social media, blasting Masino and her team of stripping Cracker Barrel of its Southern, home-style roots. Now some investors are clamoring for the board to push out Masino herself.

“Management has relied on ill-conceived strategies that have worsened existing challenges rather than solved them,” investors led by Biglari Capital Corp., said in a proxy statement filed last month.

The stock had jumped 26 percent this year through Tuesday’s close.

The better-than-expected revenue and free cash flow in the quarter underscores the steady improvement to the 737 and 787 Dreamliner production this year. That’s a break from the costly delays and quality lapses on the two models that have frustrated customers and weighed on its finances for a half decade.

The company generated free cash flow of $238 million during the quarter, a feat it last accomplished in the final months of 2023. Boeing was forced to raise cash last year, following a near-catastrophic accident in the first days of 2024 that threw its production into disarray and led

The group is calling shareholders to vote against re-electing Masino as well as Compensation Committee Chair Gilbert Dávila. Biglari has a 2.9-percent stake in Cracker Barrel. Despite the Tennessee-based company’s efforts to undo its mistakes—dropping the marketing firm behind the logo change and walking back restaurant remodeling plans—visitation to its restaurants have continued to decline, according to data compiled by Placer.ai.

“We’ve taken recent guest feedback to heart and are moving forward with a renewed focus on the food and guest experience,” said a spokesperson for Cracker Barrel in an email. “Our teams remain committed to delivering the quality and country hospitality that have defined Cracker Barrel for generations.”

Cracker Barrel is suffering a similar fate as Bud Light maker Anheuser-Busch InBev NV. In 2023, the

to a change in senior management. Analysts had expected the planemaker to burn through $884.1 million in cash before attaining positive cash flow during the fourth quarter.

The 777X is an updated version of Boeing’s popular 777 model, the company’s largest civil aircraft in production. Airbus SE, which also reports earnings later on Wednesday, competes with its A350 plane. Airlines including Emirates, the biggest buyer of the 777X, and Deutsche Lufthansa AG, the launch customer for the plane, have had to revise their fleet modernization plans as Boeing kept pushing back introduction of the giant jet. Bloomberg News

beer purveyor’s collaboration with TikTok/Instagram transgender activist, and social influencer, Dylan Mulvaney sparked a social media revolt that sent shares tumbling 20 percent in the first two months after the campaign.

‘Underlying issues’ LAST month, Cracker Barrel issued a downbeat outlook for fiscal 2026, and said that traffic after it announced the logo change on August 19, had declined approximately 8 percent through mid-September, compared with a decline of about 1 percent in the first half of August.

“Cracker Barrel’s turnaround has come off track,” said Wells Fargo Securities analyst Anthony Trainor in a note. “It will take time for the brand to recover, new strategies to be deployed and for the business to stabilize.”

The company has been taking steps to lure diners back. For instance, last week it announced a dine-in deal for two entrees and dessert starting at $19.99. But such promotions and discounts drive down profit margins and they don’t “address underlying issues,” said Trainor. Bloomberg News

The bankruptcies of parts supplier First Brands and subprime lender Tricolor Holdings exacerbated worries that worse-off consumers are struggling. CarMax shares plummeted 20 percent when the company reported quarterly results in September. Auto-loan delinquencies among young borrowers have doubled over the past year, according to Horizon Investments analyst Dmitry Shlyapnikov.

The rebound started last year, culminating with a fresh record last month and a market capitalization above $80 billion. That eclipsed century-old auto behemoths like Ford Motor Co. and General Motors Co. The traditional used-car dealers— those that may operate partially online but mainly rely on brick-andmortar stores, such as CarMax and Lithia—are worth just a fraction of Carvana.

“The online model gave them an edge on convenience and reach for sure, but not enough to justify the multiple long term,” said Haris Khurshid, chief investment officer at Karobaar Capital. “It’s basically a capital-intensive retailer wearing a tech premium.” Bloomberg News

Heinz Co. lowered its sales outlook in a sign of increasing weakness among US consumers as the maker of Kraft Mac & Cheese and Heinz ketchup prepares to split up its business. The company now expects fullyear organic net sales to be down 3 percent to 3.5 percent. Previously it projected them to be down 1.5 per-

and boxed meals, while the other will group together its slower-growing grocery staples, such as Oscar Mayer deli meats and Lunchables. For the third quarter, Kraft Heinz reported a decline in organic revenue, which strips out currencies and other items, of 2.5 percent, steeper than the average of analyst projections. Sales of coffee, cold cuts, frozen snacks and some condiments declined. Bloomberg News

Signage is displayed outside a Cracker Barrel Old Country Store Inc. restaurant and gift shop in Louisville, Kentucky. BLOOMBERG

BLOOMBERG

Teachers thank GSIS for open dialogue, commitment to resolve issues

Teachers’ Dignity Coalition (TDC) Chairperson Benjo Basas thanked the Government Service Insurance System (GSIS) for holding an open and constructive dialogue that allowed teachers to voice their concerns directly to the pension fund’s leadership.

“Thank you very much for this dialoge. A lot of issues were discussed and hopefully, all this will lead to the resolution of issues raised by teachers,” Basas said, emphasizing the value of continuous communication between GSIS and the education sector.

The meeting, held at the GSIS Head Office, was part of the agency’s ongoing effort to strengthen engagement with its 2.7 million members and pensioners, particularly public school teachers who make up the largest membership group.

GSIS President and General Manager Wick Veloso assured participants that their concerns are being addressed with transparency and care. “We welcome these discussions because they allow us to correct misinformation and assure our members that their funds are managed prudently. Teachers are among our most valued members, and we want them to know that their contributions are safe and continuously growing,” Veloso said.

He explained that GSIS has not invested in gambling-related businesses, contrary to online claims, and that 70 percent of GSIS funds are in risk-free investments such as government securities, member loans, and cash deposits. Only a small portion is invested in equities and real estate.

Veloso added that the pension fund remains financially strong, with total assets reaching P1.92 trillion as of August 2025, up from P1.53 trillion in 2022, and a net income of P100 billion year-to-date.

To help teachers manage financial challenges, Veloso highlighted the Ginhawa Loan Bundle programs, Ginhawa Flex, Lite, and Max, which offer affordable terms and can be easily accessed via the GSIS Touch mobile app. “We understand the challenges faced by our teachers. That’s why we’ve made our loan programs more flexible and convenient,” he said.

Meanwhile, newly appointed GSIS Trustee Gilbert Tan Sadsad, who represents the Philippine Public School Teachers Association (PPSTA), expressed his personal commitment to support educators. “We will do our best to resolve as many issues as possible when it comes to retirement at GSIS. We need to work together and bring teachers’ feedback to management and the Board so we can find solutions,” he said.

The GSIS chief also noted that this dialogue followed earlier consultations with other educator groups such as the Philippine Government Employees Association (PGEA) and the Action and Solidarity for the Empowerment of Teachers (ASSERT) held earlier in October.

“These dialogues strengthen mutual understanding and help us move forward together in ensuring Ginhawa for All,” Veloso concluded.

Holiday Inn & Suites Makati Unveils Refreshed, Redefined, Reimagined Guest Rooms

HOLIDAY Inn & Suites Makati proudly unveils its newly refreshed guest rooms, beautifully redefined and reimagined to offer guests a perfect blend of modern comfort, Filipino artistry, and ecofriendly design. This transformation reflects the hotel’s ongoing commitment to creating meaningful stays that inspire, delight, and feel like home.

“It’s all about comfort with

FOR many Bacolodnons, MassKara is

with Saludad Socials, a curated event that brought families, friends, and future residents together for a day of joyful experiences, rooted in Bacolod’s unique spirit. Held inside the Saludad Sales Pavilion, the event welcomed guests to a vibrant mix of family-friendly activities, artisan

meaning,” said Andy Belmonte, General Manager. “We’ve combined modern design, local craftsmanship, and sustainable choices to give our guests a stay that feels fresh, thoughtful, and truly memorable.”

Each room features a sleek, contemporary look with a fresh color palette accented by vibrant green and yellow tones. These signature hues do more than brighten the space; they

Car Horror Stories: Road Mishaps You Should Avoid this Undas

UNDAS or All Saints’ Day/All Souls’ Day is a time for families to come together, honor loved ones and reconnect with their roots. But for many, it also means long drives, packed highways, and unpredictable road conditions. As thousands of Filipinos prepare to travel to the provinces this season, Prestone®, the #1 Brake Fluid and #1 Coolant in the Philippines, reminds motorists that a safe journey begins with preparation, because road horror stories can creep up on you when you least expect them.

From flat tires to overheated engines, here are some of the most common car horror stories that can ruin your Undas trip, and how you can avoid them through proper car preventive maintenance and the right coolant for your car.

Image you’re driving to your hometown, and you only have a few kilometers away to reach your destination when you hear a loud thud. You stop and check your car, and it turns out your tire gave up. Whether it’s a nail on the road or a worn-out tire, this classic road mishap can throw off your entire schedule.

That is why it’s important to inspect your tires before traveling. Make sure they have proper air pressure and don’t forget to bring a spare tire, jack, and tools. A quick check before the trip can spare you hours of roadside trouble.

After a short stopover, you return to your car, only to find that it won’t start. A weak or drained battery is a common culprit during long weekends when cars sit idle for days before the trip. Have your battery checked before you travel and clean any corrosion around the terminals. Keeping your lights, dash cameras, and accessories off when parked helps extend battery life. This is a simple car maintenance tip every driver should practice, even on casual daily drives.

energize and uplift, creating memorable brand moments from the moment guests step inside.

A standout feature is the designer lamp inspired by photo studio lighting, a subtle tribute to Jaime Zobel de Ayala’s passion for photography and the arts. Guests will also find a handcrafted amenity tray woven from native materials by Nanay weavers and Tatay artisans from Bicol. This thoughtful detail not only celebrates Filipino craftsmanship but also supports local communities and the hotel’s shared commitment to sustainability.

The bathroom offers a spa-like retreat, complete with a slow-flow shower head for a calming experience and bulk amenities that help reduce single-use plastic. For restful nights, guests can choose between soft or firm pillows, ensuring comfort tailored to their preference.

Each room is thoughtfully equipped with a Smart TV, writing desk, and alarm clock—ideal for both relaxation and productivity. Convenient QR codes provide instant access to in-room dining menus and a full directory of hotel services, giving guests everything they need right at their fingertips.

To book your stay, call +63 2 7909 0888 or email hism.reservations@ihg.com. For more information, visit www.ihg. com/holidayinn/makati.com or follow @ holidayinnmakati on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok.

You’re in heavy traffic when your brakes suddenly feel soft or unresponsive. It’s every driver’s nightmare, and it usually stems from neglected car maintenance which often includes old brake fluid, worn pads, or leaks in the system.

Schedule a quick check-up at your nearest car maintenance service centers or talyers. Brake health is nonnegotiable, especially on long drives. Remember, it’s always better to prevent than repair.

You’re halfway through your journey when the car suddenly stalls in the middle of the road. The reason? Old coolant or a system leak that caused the engine to overheat.

When you’re far from a mechanic, Prestone Coolant

THE most wonderful time of the year is here, bringing countless moments to connect, give, and share joy. This holiday season, The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf® Philippines invites everyone to come together and Share the Cheer, celebrating kindness, warmth, and meaningful connections over every cup. At the heart of this year's campaign is The Giving Collection, a lineup of limited-edition tumblers and bags designed to capture the spirit of generosity that defines the holidays. More than just collectible items, The Giving Collection celebrates the joy of giving to oneself, to loved ones, and to those in need. For many years, The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf®'s holiday stamp collection has been a highlight of the season, a meaningful ritual that rewards every visit with something special to look forward to. This 2025, that wellloved experience takes on new meaning with The Giving Collection, the official name for the brand's annual holiday redemption items. Featuring five exclusive designs — the Sugar Plum and Blueberry Rush Bags, and the Moonberry, Vanilla Pop, and Citrus Fizz Tumblers — each piece combines thoughtful craftsmanship with festive design. Sugar Plum Bag – A spacious blue canvas sling bag with full interior padding, multiple pockets, and a sleek bean & leaf patch. Blueberry Rush Bag – A light purple canvas sling bag that's both functional and stylish, perfect for everyday use. Vanilla Pop Tumbler – A 32oz powder-coated tumbler with a laser-engraved logo,

Ready To Use can be a real lifesaver. Formulated with 5X Superior Cooling Protection Guaranteed, it protects your engine from overheating, rust, corrosion, and boilover, ensuring long-lasting protection for key components like the radiator, water pump, thermostat, and aluminum parts. Because it’s pre-diluted and ready to pour, there’s no need to add distilled water or mix. Just top up your coolant anywhere and you’re good to go. Siguradong compatible with all makes and models, even motorcycles, and meets ASTM standards for superior performance.

Few things are as stressful as seeing steam rising from your hood in the middle of a long drive. Overheating often happens when drivers skip basic car maintenance or use incompatible coolant for car. Before you hit the road, make sure your car’s engine is protected with Prestone Asian Coolant. Engineered with 5X Superior Cooling Action and Cor-Guard™ Technology, siguradong compatible with your car brand. The Prestone Asian Coolant 1L is available in RED/PINK, BLUE, and GREEN color variants.

RED/PINK COOLANT: For all Toyota®, Lexus®, and Scion® vehicles, all years BLUE COOLANT: For all Honda®, Nissan®, Subaru® vehicles, pre-2009 to 2011 & Newer GREEN COOLANT: For all Isuzu®, Suzuki®, Hyundai®, KIA®, Mazda® Mitsubishi® vehicles, pre-2009 to 2011 & Newer As Filipinos gear up for the long Undas weekend, Prestone reminds every driver to take extra precautions before hitting the road. From checking your brakes to topping up your coolant, a little preparation goes a long way in ensuring a smooth and safe journey for you and your loved ones. Don’t let car troubles become your real-life horror story this Undas. Keep your engine cool with Prestone Asian Coolant and Prestone Coolant Ready to Use— siguradong compatible with 5X superior protection your vehicle deserves. Both Prestone Coolants are available at leading automotive stores and retail outlets nationwide, including True Value, Handyman, Ace Hardware, Blade, and online through the official stores on Lazada and Shopee. Prestone also urges customers to purchase only from authorized retailers to ensure product authenticity and vehicle safety. To learn more about Prestone’s full range of products and car preventive maintenance tips, visit www.prestone.com.ph

Newly appointed GSIS Trustee Gilbert Tan Sadsad (right), representing the Philippine Public School Teachers Association, joins the dialogue with the Teachers’ Dignity Coalition, pledging to support educators and bring their feedback to management and the Board for solutions.

To heal from a loss, you have to feel all the feels, says MakatiMed health specialist

IT begins with a loss—of a loved one, a relationship, a loyal pet—and triggers a reaction right there and then, or when you least expect it. One day you’re fine, the next thing you know you’re in pieces. Emotions run the gamut, from a quiet, heartbroken sadness to an intense ugly cry.

Yes, there is no right or wrong way to grieve, so much so that you don’t have to go through psychiatrist Elizabeth Kübler-Ross’ five stages of grief—denial, anger, bargaining, depression, and acceptance—in their exact order.

“In fact, it’s perfectly all right to skip some, re-experience others, or feel things not mentioned by Dr. Ross, like shock or guilt,” says Jon Edward B. Jurilla, MD, from the Department of Psychiatry of the country’s top hospital Makati Medical Center (MakatiMed, www.makatimed.net.ph).

“Grief is a very personal experience. No two people grieve alike.”

Well-meaning family and friends can also be divided on how long you should grieve. Some will tell you to take as much time as you need, others hope you move on sooner than later.

“Grief is a natural, human response that can be physically and emotionally gut-wrenching,” explains Jurilla.

“Losing a spouse, parent, or child can feel like losing a part of you, because in reality, they were.”

The first step to healing? “Acknowledge your feelings,” Jurilla points out. “Don’t suppress them or judge yourself for crying or screaming. Allow yourself to express sadness, anger, regret, and whatever feelings that come up.”

n Talk about it. “Whether with a close family member, a trusted confidant, a spiritual adviser, or a trained professional, saying your thoughts out loud can be cathartic,” says Jurilla.

n Find other ways to express your grief. “You could write your thoughts down in a journal, or go for long walks in nature,” Jurilla suggests.

“The quiet time could give you clarity.”

n Have company. “Surround yourself with people who genuinely care about you. You can also find comfort in support groups whose members are going through a similar experience.”

n Take care of yourself. “Grief can be physically and emotionally exhausting. Make sure you eat and get enough sleep. Allow others to look out for you, too. If someone offers to take you out to lunch, buy you groceries, or drive you where you need to go, graciously accept.”

n Keep the one you lost close. “Saving a picture of that person on your phone or wallet, or wearing a piece of jewelry or article of clothing that belonged to them can somehow feel like they’re still around. This softens the blow of your loss.”

n Remember the good times. “Recalling happy memories, funny anecdotes, and quirks that made you love this person will give you a respite from all the tears.”

n Take things one day at a time. As mentioned earlier, grieving is a natural process, and whatever you’re feeling is totally valid. “Eventually, as time passes and your sadness slowly gives way to a calm acceptance, that doesn’t mean you love the person or thing you lost any less,” says Jurilla.

“It simply means that they live on in your memories and in your heart.”

Strong families, strong bodies: Why muscle health matters more than ever

AS parents, we often think of health in terms of weight, diet, or exercise. But there is one key aspect many of us overlook— muscle health. In our rush to balance work, home, and family, we forget that strength isn’t just about lifting or running; it’s the foundation of how we move, age, and care for the people we love.

As the Philippines transitions into an aging society, the growing threat of sarcopenia, or agerelated muscle loss, has quietly become a national concern. Studies reveal that 7 out of 10 older Filipino adults may already be affected—especially those aged 60 and above (Sun J, Zhang W and Han P (2025): Prospects for the diagnosis and treatment of sarcopenia in the Philippines). This condition, marked by the gradual decline in muscle mass and strength, increases the risk of falls, fractures, and even cognitive decline. It doesn’t just affect the elderly; it affects the whole family—because when a parent or grandparent loses strength, independence and confidence, everyone adjusts.

According to the Philippine Statistics Authority, around 12 percent of the population will be 65 or older by 2050, compared to just 5.4 percent in 2020

(Philippine Statistics Authority: 2024 Census of Population). This means every Filipino family will eventually feel the effects—caring for aging parents, supporting recovery after illness, or preparing ourselves for the years ahead.

Muscle health matters to us parents. Sarcopenia often begins earlier than we expect. From the age of 40, adults lose up to 8 percent of muscle mass per decade, and the rate accelerates after 60. It’s not only about looking fit—it’s about keeping the strength to carry groceries, lift a grandchild, or stay active during family trips. When muscle weakens, so does immunity, metabolism and balance.

The early signs are easy to dismiss: walking slower, getting tired sooner, or losing weight without trying. But these can lead to serious consequences. Around 30 percent of adults over 65, and half of those over 80, experience a fall each year (WHO, 2004). Imagine the emotional and financial impact on a family when one fall changes everything.

Good news for parents. While aging is inevitable, muscle loss doesn’t have to be. Nutrition is one of the strongest tools we have to preserve strength. Meals rich in high-quality protein—lean meats, fish, eggs, and soy—help repair and build muscle tissue. Even busy parents can integrate small but powerful changes: adding an egg at breakfast, grilled fish for lunch, or a protein drink after an evening walk. Specialized nutritional supplements also play an important role. Products like Ensure Gold with StrengthPro, formulated with HMB (a musclepreserving compound) and YBG (a nutrient that supports immune health), help maintain muscle mass and resilience. These ingredients support protein synthesis, enhance recovery, and help maintain a healthy body weight—key factors in maintaining

independence.

As Dr. Gamaliel Tayao, Abbott’s head of medical affairs in the Philippines, explains: “Muscle health is foundational to aging well—not just for mobility, but for immunity, recovery and independence. That’s why Abbott develops science-based nutrition products like Ensure Gold with StrengthPro, to deliver the right mix of protein, vitamins, minerals, and calories our bodies need for healthy aging.”

Families can take simple, daily actions to strengthen muscles and prevent decline:

n Stay active together: Walk after dinner, do light squats or wall push-ups, and make movement part of your bonding time. Even household chores count.

n Prioritize nutrition: Incorporate protein-rich meals and consider nutritional supplements like Ensure Gold with StrengthPro to fill nutritional gaps.

n Schedule regular check-ups: Encourage your parents—and yourself—to monitor gait speed, and other health markers to catch early signs of decline.

n Try simple screening tools: Handgrip or sit-to-stand tests or 4-meter gait speed test can reveal early muscle weakness and prompt early intervention.

As parents, we often put our energy into nurturing others—our children, our work, our homes. When we keep ourselves strong, we ensure that we can continue to give, serve, and show up fully for the people who need us. As much as life expectancy is improving, the challenge is no longer just living longer but living stronger.

Whether you’re caring for aging parents, building healthy habits for your children, or simply thinking ahead—remember: it’s never too early, or too late, to protect your family’s strength.

CLASSIC REDS TO FUN PASTELS, FIND THE PERFECT VIBE FOR YOUR HOME AT THE BEST PRICE

IT’S the most wonderful time of the year to transform your home into a festive masterpiece that your whole family will love. Whether you are into traditional Christmas colors or love experimenting with unique hues, you can find the perfect decorations you’ll need at the Robinsons Department Store Christmas Shop. With Robinsons Department Store’s diverse collection, there’s no shortage of Christmas trees, baubles, figurines, throw pillow covers, and many other items to bring in the holiday magic to your space. The best part is you can purchase them with exciting promos happening at Robinsons Department Store branches nationwide.

If you don’t know what theme to go for yet, here are some design inspirations you can pull from:

mixing and matching festive Throw Pillowcases on your sofa.

NATURAL ELEGANCE

WITH “Golden” from K-Pop Demon Hunters becoming a hit everywhere, here’s your chance to add the shimmery hue to your Christmas decorations. Natural Elegance pertains to a dainty and sparkly aesthetic with shades of gold, white and soft shades that bring a timeless sophistication to any home. The mini Christmas tree tabletop décor adds a shiny touch to your dinner spread, while the elegant Christmas wreath can brighten up a room.

PRETTY PASTELS

BEJEWELED CHRISTMAS

JEWEL tones have an opulent vibe with its vibrant shades and glittery designs. Robinsons Department Store’s Bejeweled Christmas collection contains striking blues, purples, teals and more that will remind you of gemstones shimmering under the light. The colorful Christmas Balls and Ornaments can help make your tree look elegant without scrimping on color. Feel like royalty with a giant Nutcracker figurine by the door, or small ones watching over your noche buena.

VERY BERRY

THE Very Berry theme is a treat for plant lovers thanks to its fruit and floral-inspired décor. Give your home a fresh look with a berry-filled Christmas Wreath, Potted Tree with Berries, and Pinecones Tabletop Decor. Robinsons Department Store also has Throw Pillowcases with poinsettia flowers and red berries printed on them. Let the holiday magic come alive in your home with the Robinsons Department Store Christmas Shop, now available at all branches nationwide and online marketplaces, like LazMall, Shopee Mall, and TikTok Shop. FROM

CLASSIC CHRISTMAS NOTHING beats the traditional Christmas look –trees adorned with red, green and silver décor, and Santa Claus greeting everyone with his welcoming smile. Robinsons Department Store’s collection of Christmas Balls, Fillers, and Ornaments can add personality to your tree. Make any room feel warmer with a Santa Hanging Decor on your front door or by

SOFT pastels are in this holiday season. Inspired by desserts and childlike wonder, Pretty Pastels can bring out your whimsical side with Robinsons Department Store’s colorful pieces. Decorate your tree with cookie-inspired Hanging Decor, a cupcakeshaped Ornament, and a candy cane Filler for a sweet touch that you won’t see in others. Pink Nutcracker figurines and intricate Gingerbread House Tabletop Décor add more fun to every corner of your home.

Silver and bronze: No regrets, no tears

By Aldrin Quinto

AKHIR, Bahrain—Jhodie

SPeralta stood on the podium all smiles, silver and bronze medals gleaming under the bright lights of the Asian Youth Games at Exhibition World Bahrain. No regrets. No tears.

T he 16-year-old lass from Zamboanga City proudly displayed the medals she believes she earned, unashamed of missing out on gold despite the razor-thin margin.

“One kilo. That was it,” Peralta said of the difference between gold and silver, laughing softly.

Peralta, a 10th grader from Talon-Talon National High School in Zamboanga City, was a triple gold medalist at the 2025 IWF Youth & Junior World Championships in Lima, Peru last May.

A t the AYG, Peralta placed second in the women’s 49 kg snatch and third in the clean and jerk. “That’s okay, whatever the Lord gives me, I will accept,” she said. She lifted 87 kgs in the snatch, after successful attempts at 82 and 85 on Tuesday. North Korea’s Pak Hae Yon set a new world youth record with 88 after lifts of 84 and 86, while Vietnam’s Y Lien settled for bronze with 82. In the clean and jerk, Peralta managed 100 kgs in her first attempt, enough to secure the bronze. The next two attempts—at 105 and 107—were no-lifts, but she didn’t dwell on it.

“I t wasn’t easy,” she admitted. “I wasn’t even 100 percent sure I’d make those lifts.”

Pak was on another level, lifting a new world youth record of 107 after

Ababa one stroke ahead at South Pacific

SARAH ABABA scrambled for a one-under 71 to take a one-stroke lead in the second round of the International Container Terminal Services Inc. South Pacific Golf Classic on Wednesday in Davao. Seeking a second Ladies Philippine Golf Tour title in three weeks, Ababa is at four-under 140, with Chanelle Avaricio and Florence Bisera. A baba had seized a three-stroke lead after a brilliant, bogey-free 13hole run highlighted by three birdies. But she faltered late, suffering a missed green bogey on the 14th and again misfiring on the 16th. Despite the late stumbles, her nines of 35-36 proved enough to wrest the lead and put her in prime position for a follow-up to her dramatic playoff victory over Avaricio at Del Monte two weeks ago. She floundered at Apo Golf the week after that, finishing 10th. Avaricio, coming off a dominant run at Apo, couldn’t sustain her fiery 68 start. After a three-birdie, three-bogey frontside, she traded a bogey on the 14th with a birdie on the next to stay level with Ababa at four-under. But a poor third shot from a divot on the par-5 18th and a missed short putt led to a closing bogey, dropping her to a 73 and a share of second with Bisera at 141.

Bisera, three shots adrift after 18 holes, recovered from a bogey on the first hole with a run of four birdies in nine holes from No. 6 to momentarily tie Ababa. But a miscue on No. 15 sent her back to a two-under 70, keeping her just one behind in what has become a tight, unpredictable race. And the chase pack is swelling. Tiffany Lee fired a tournament-best 67, ignited by five straight birdies from No. 7, to jump into a tie for fourth at 142 with two of the LPGT’s top names— Princess Superal and Daniella Uy. Superal, just one off the lead on Tuesday, carded a 73, while Uy started hot with three birdies on the front but missed several makeable chances on the inward nine to settle for a 69. Further down, Marvi Monsalve stayed within striking distance after a 71 for 145, while Harmie Constantino (72), Mafy Singson (73) and Chihiro Ikeda (75) rounded out the next three spots at 146, 147 and 148, respectively. Ababa said she plans to stick to her simple, no-risk approach in the final round – one that’s centered on precision and patience. Same strategy, but hopefully I can putt better, because it’s so difficult reading the greens,” she said. For Avaricio, the round was a test of rhythm and resilience.

missed tries at 105 and 107. Lien lifted 106 for the silver.

Peralta candidly admitted that Pak’s record-breaking lifts were beyond her current reach.

“I h ave tried those weights last year,” she said. “But not anymore recently. Sometimes I get dizzy trying to lift them.” “Maybe next time.”

A p roduct of the Hidilyn Diaz Training Center, Peralta looks ahead with optimism as she gears up for her stint in the Southeast Asian Games in Thailand this December.

Peralta, who was inspired to become an athlete at a very young age—as early as when Hidilyn Diaz bagged silver in the 2016 Rio Olympics—hopes to follow in her idol’s footsteps and bring pride to the country one day.

No embarrassment, no guilt

LEO MHAR LOBRIDO also feels no embarrassment or guilt after falling short of the gold medal match in boxing.

T he 16-year-old fighter, a flag bearer for the Philippine delegation during the opening ceremony, could not overcome Abdugani Yorkinjonov’s edge in length, bowing out at the semifinal stage of the light flyweight division by unanimous decision.

“I lost, which only means my preparation was not enough,” Lobrido said with a smile. Lobrido was left chasing a finishing blow in the final round—he couldn’t land the punch he needed—after a less than ideal start.

Sports BusinessMirror

I t was a close opening round that looked to have been won by the Filipino, but the fighter from Uzbekistan stepped it up in the second for a 5-0 edge.

One of the most promising pugs in the country—he won at the Greater Bay Area Youth Boxing Challenge in Shenzhen, China just before the AYG— Lobrido has proven he belongs among the region’s elite. L obrido was still all smiles stepping off the ring and walking back to the dugout, unapologetic as he waved to the crowd, head held high. “I need to learn from this, and apply those things in the future,” Lobrido said. “M aybe in the future, it’s going to be gold.”

USOPC starts gender testing

EW YORK—With 100 days to go until the Winter Olympics, the US Olympic and Paralympic Committee has begun the complicated and expensive task of identifying female skiers and snowboarders who need to take gender tests before they arrive in Italy.

The sport’s international federation adopted a rule last month requiring athletes who want to compete in women’s events to take what’s called an SRY gene test, which identifies the Y chromosome found in males.

It’s the same test that track and boxing federations adopted earlier in the year.

The USOPC’s chief medical officer, Jonathan Finnoff, said Tuesday the experience in getting athletes from those sports tested in a short window will make this project run more smoothly.

Our role in that was helping identify labs and options for the athletes to be able to get that testing,” Finnoff said. “Based on that experience and knowing some other international federations would be following suit, figuring out how to make this a seamless process” was the USOPC’s mission.

The tests cost around $250 each and World Athletics helped offset some of the

expense while the FIS, for International Ski and Snowboard Federation, has not revealed whether it will help with the cost.

Santor bags two more gold medals; Ratcliff shines in BP after Asian tilt

By Josef T. Ramos

PATRICIA SANTOR bagged two gold medals on Wednesday to propel Team Manila to the top of the swimming standings of the 2025 Batang Pinoy National Championships at the Antonio Acharon Sports Complex in General Santos City. The University of Santo Tomas 12th grader dominated the girls’ 16–17 division 200-meter butterfly and anchored the 4x50-meter freestyle relay team, which features Jamie Sy, Eliana Rodriguez and Kristine Uy to a record-breaking finish of one minute and 55.42 seconds. That broke Quezon City’s previous mark of 1:56.12.

S antor’s performance helped Manila surge ahead of Baguio City with 19 gold, 16 silver and 14 bronze

medals on Wednesday afternoon. Catherine Cruz of Mabalacat City claimed her fourth gold in the girls’ 100-meter backstroke (1:07.93), adding to her wins in the 50m (31.23, new record) and 200m backstroke (2:29.51). In Ji u-Jitsu, Charlie Ratcliff of Quezon City won the juvenile girls’ Gi 16–17 -48 kg featherweight division at Lagao Central Elementary School Gym. She also earned bronze in the No Gi category.

R atcliff defeated Rafaella Isabel Sumera, 3–0, in the final after besting Raesee Margarette Reyes (6–0) in the semis and Denicah Louise Untalan in the quarters. She lost to Untalan in the No Gi semis.

R atcliff won at the Asian Youth Games in mixed martial arts just a few days ago.

Lumbo limits errors to retain lead as Monsalve rises to second spot

Though only a few dozen skiers and snowboarders will qualify for the US team, the number of tests needed could reach into the hundreds, as athletes in all disciplines covered by skiing and snowboarding traverse the globe over the next several weeks for FIS-sanctioned events that will play a role in determining who makes the Olympic team.

The FIS rule comes on the heels of the USOPC’s quiet revision of its own policy involving gender in sports.

In July, the USOPC effectively barred transgender women from competing in women’s sports, telling its national governing bodies they had an obligation to comply with the executive order issued by President Donald Trump called “Keeping Men Out of Women’s Sports.” Board chair Gene Sykes said “fortunately, the executive order that’s designed to protect women’s sports in the United States is very consistent with the trend internationally.”

“Most of the international sports federations are moving in this direction,” Sykes said. AP

JEFFREN LUMBO displayed the poise of a battle-tested veteran by grinding out a gutsy twounder 70 under steady drizzle to hold off Ryan Monsalve halfway through the International Container Terminal Services Inc. South Pacific Golf Classic on Wednesday in Davao.

T he rookie from Sarangani did it in wet, demanding conditions—softened fairways, roughs and slick greens punished the slightest lapse—spoke volumes about the 29-year-old’s growing stature and steely mindset.

The course’s so tough, especially in pin placement,” said Lumbo, who three-putted on No. 6 for a bogey and suffered another setback with an errant tee shot on the par-3 No. 15, resulting in another bogey.

Despite these miscues, he carded a 35-35 round highlighted by four birdies, including an impressive run of three birdies over four holes from No. 10 to stay

ahead of the packed at seven-under 137.

A s the Philippine Golf Tour’s established stars faltered, Monsalve seized the challenger’s role with a twoday total of 139, bolstering his bid for a breakthrough victory with an impressive bogey-free 68.

R ussell Bautista also carded a four-under round to secure solo third at 140, as the tour’s lesser-known contenders positioned themselves for a potential shake-up

winner Reymon Jaraula turned in an eaglespiked 71 to join Korean Jaehyun Jung at joint fourth with 141s. Jung, who lost to Fidel Concepcion in sudden death at Apo last week, unleashed a three-birdie barrage over four holes from No. 15 to card a 70. R amil Bisera, on the other hand, capitalized on his local knowledge to fire a 69 and tie Michael Bibat, who matched his opening 71, at 142. Angelo Que and Keanu Jahns, locked in a heated chase for a third leg crown this season, pooled identical 143s for a share of eighth with Marvin Dumandan, who carded an

JHODIE PERALTA is all smiles as she proudly poses with her silver and bronze medals in weightlifting while Leo Mhar Lobrido yields to a taller Uzbek with a longer reach in boxing’s semifinals. POC PHOTO

Hall of Famer Manny Pacquiao speaks during the “The Thrilla in Manila” Gala Night on Tuesday at the Novotel at the Araneta City as he pays tribute to the legends who defined an era and celebrated the spirit that continues to inspire generations. The “Thrilla” celebrates the 50th anniversary of the iconic “Thrilla in Manila” world heavyweight title fight between the late Muhammad Ali and Joe Frazier at the Big Dome in 1975. PHOTO COURTESY OF WENDELL ALINEA

JEFFREN LUMBO hirs four birdies and two bogeys. PGT

Editor: Anne Ruth Dela Cruz

Health&Fitness

Los Baños Hospital Wins Gold for AI-Powered Mortality Review Project

By Anne Ruth Dela Cruz

IN a remarkable feat that underscores the power of purposeful innovation in healthcare, HealthServ Los Baños Medical Center, an affiliate of the Mount Grace Hospitals Network, earned the Gold Award in the Most Advanced Healthcare Technology category at the 2025 Hospital Management Asia (HMA) Awards.

The recognition honors the hospital’s pioneering initiative, “Smart Alerts for Smarter Audits: A RuleBased Hospital Mortality Review Process Using AI-Predicted Mortality,” a project that demonstrates how a community hospital can successfully harness artificial intelligence (AI) to transform clinical processes and enhance patient outcomes.

The award-winning project is led by Dr. Anton Elepaño, Clinical Outcomes Consultant, and Dr. Emilio Adriano, Medical Director of HealthServ Los Baños. Together with Lovely Edeza, Grace Engle, and Melfred Sumaya, they developed a system that integrates predictive analytics with automated alerts to support clinicians in monitoring and reviewing inpatient outcomes.

Mortality predictions BY using AI-generated mortality predictions drawn from the hospital’s electronic health records, the process automatically flags specific cases for review, allowing doctors to focus their attention on cases that need immediate analysis and action.

“Traditionally, mortality audits require extensive manual chart reviews, a time-consuming and sometimes inconsistent process,” explained Dr. Adriano. “With the help of AI, we can now prioritize cases more effectively,

RECEIVING the award for HealthServ Los Baños Medical Center are, from left, Dr. Emil Adriano, Medical Director; Dr. Maria Lisa Ang-Santo, Business Development Officer; and Dr. Anton Elepaño, Clinical Outcomes Consultant.

ensuring that we are not only reviewing outcomes but learning from them in real time.”

The system’s AI model was trained using more than 30,000 anonymized patient records dating back to 2016. It employs natural language processing (NLP) to interpret clinical notes and a random forest algorithm to identify patterns and variables that may contribute to higher mortality risks. Through this method, HealthServ’s AI-powered review system has dramatically improved efficiency, cutting chart review time by nearly half, while increasing data accuracy and standardizing how clinical outcomes are analyzed.

Crucial realization

ACCORDING to Dr. Elepaño, the project was born out of a simple but crucial realization that hospitals already possess vast amounts of valuable data, but without the right tools, much of it goes unused.

“We wanted to design something that’s practical and scalable , a system that works even in resource-limited

settings,” he said. “AI doesn’t replace human judgment; it enhances it. Our goal was to empower clinicians with insights drawn from data, so that every review becomes an opportunity for better care.”

Beyond its technical achievements, the initiative also reflects the hospital’s larger vision: to foster a culture of continuous learning, accountability, and innovation.

For Dr. Adriano, the project represents HealthServ’s ongoing journey toward excellence.

“As a small hospital, we wanted to prove that innovation isn’t confined to big institutions,” he said. “We can lead meaningful change by combining purpose, teamwork, and the right use of technology. Every improvement in process is, ultimately, an investment in patient safety and trust.”

Broader applications

THE framework designed by the team also has broader applications beyond mortality audits. The system’s rulebased structure and predictive capability can be expanded to track other

clinical indicators such as predicting the cost of admission, analyzing wound care outcomes, or benchmarking performance across hospitals within the Mount Grace network. These possibilities, according to Dr. Elepaño, reflect the project’s adaptability and its potential to serve as a blueprint for other hospitals seeking to make data-driven decisions.

The Hospital Management Asia (HMA) Awards, established in 2002, are among the most respected platforms for recognizing excellence and innovation in healthcare management across the Asia-Pacific region. The annual conference brings together healthcare executives, clinicians, and innovators to showcase transformative projects and share best practices in areas such as patient safety, clinical effectiveness, sustainability, and digital transformation.

Forward-thinking approaches

THE awards celebrate hospitals that demonstrate forward-thinking approaches and measurable impact, institutions that go beyond compliance to create systems of genuine improvement. Held this year in Vietnam, the 2025 HMA Awards gathered hospitals and health systems from across Asia to celebrate groundbreaking work that raises the standards of healthcare delivery.

Competing against larger and more established institutions, HealthServ Los Baños’ victory was both humbling and inspiring.

“It proves that innovation isn’t limited by size or location,” said Dr. Adriano. “Even a community hospital in Los Baños can lead the way in using data science to improve healthcare delivery. What matters most is the commitment to do better for our patients, our people, and the community we serve.”

UP Manila, DepEd partner to tackle mental health issues among high school students

By Claudeth Mocon Ciriaco

THE University of the Philippines Manila (UPM) and the Department of Education (DepEd), Schools Division Office of Manila (SDO Manila) recently signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) that aims to tackle the rising prevalence of mental health issues among secondary school students, set to be implemented in 2026.

The partnership’s initiatives seek to emphasize mental health promotion in schools.

One of the activities to be implemented is the research project on the development of learning mater ials for improving mental health literacy.

“We are truly grateful for this partnership with the University of the Philippines, Manila - College of Public Health (CPH). We are very much willing to help our students, but sometimes, we do not know how to start or what to say. We don’t know how to approach our students,” said Arlen Gatpo, public schools district supervisor of SDO Manila, during the ceremonial MOA signing activity on Oct. 15, 2025, at UP Manila.

The signing of the MOA coincided

with the celebration of the National Mental Health Month.

Bullying

ASIDE from anxiety and depression, Gatpo said many secondary students experience bullying.

This echoes the results of the 2018 Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA), which dubbed the Philippines as “the bullying capital of the world,” as cited by the Second Congressional Commission on Education (EDCOM 2).

The PISA results also said 65 percent of Grade 10 students in the Philippines experience bullying a few times a month, the highest incidence among OECD (Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development) countries. DepEd data shows that only 11 percent or 38 out of 339 bullying cases were resolved from November 2022 to July 2024, the EDCOM 2 noted.

Recognize early warning signs of mental health  THE partnership between UPM and SDO Manila includes a research component on mental health promotion among secondary school teachers.

“The project aims to deliver mental health literacy lessons to junior high

school students.

We want to see if there will be an improvement in mental health literacy among the students. The findings will be presented to the DepEd Central Office to support a potential broader implementation of the training initiative,” Dr. Crystal Amiel Estrada, professor of the Department of Environment and Occupational Health, CPH explained.

“The modules do not teach about diagnosis of mental disorders, but to help learners recognize early warning signs and enable them to seek help early if needed,” Dr. Estrada added.

Literacy program for educators

THE mental health literacy program for educators was conceptualized in 2019 as part of the implementation of an ongoing collaboration with the Japan Institute for Health Security, resulting in the development of educational modules and videos on mental health that will be pilot tested in the city of Manila.

“The partnership will later expand towards the development of a model of a Comprehensive Health Promoting School in Manila. This will be through the Dr. Stephen Program on Health Leadership and Gover -

nance (DSZPLG), in partnership with the World Health Organization and the SEAMEO-TROPMED (Southeast Asian Ministers of Education Tropical Medicine and Public Health) Network. Leadership capacity building of principals to respond to health issues in the schools will be a major strategy.” Dr. Ernesto Gregorio, Coordinator of the DSZPHLG and Associate Professor and Department Chair, explained.

In 2024, President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr. signed Republic Act 12080, or the Basic Education Mental Health and Well-Being Promotion Act, which mandates comprehensive mental health programs across basic education institutions to promote awareness, prevention, and proactive support for student well-being. In March 2025, the DepEd released the Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR) of the said law.

“In addressing mental health challenges within our schools, it is essential to actively involve the parents and teachers’ associations. The best practices we will develop through this partnership with DepEd shall serve as a model we can replicate in the entire country,” UP Manila Chancellor Michael Tee said.

Living well matters now more than living long–Manulife forum

By Rory Visco Contributor

AS Filipinos live longer, a new question emerges: are those added years truly lived in good health and fulfillment? This was the key message of Manulife Philippines’ inaugural “Time to Move— Manulife Longevity Symposium,” that gathered more than 500 health experts, business leaders, and advocates and to explore how to help Filipinos live not just longer but better. The event also marked a milestone in

Manulife’s commitment to the longevity movement, a global initiative that recognizes that longer life expectancy must come with better health, stronger finances, and sustainable living.

Living longer, living better

ACCORDING to Manulife Philippines President and CEO Rahul Hora, the symposium underscores the company’s mission to support Filipinos in preparing for a healthier, more rewarding life. “As Filipinos redefine what it means to live longer and better, we at Manulife are

committed to helping them achieve this vision with trusted guidance and financial tools to help them make informed decisions about their future,” Hora said.

The event, he added, aims to inspire action toward “healthier, more purposeful living” by combining insights from experts in healthcare, wellness, and finance.

Among the highlights were discussions on preventive health, wealth management, and sustainability, three key areas Manulife identified as essential pillars for living well into old age.

Hora explained that while the insur -

The Medical City earns JCI Academic Medical Center status; welcomes Edu Manzano as ambassador

By Candy P. Dalizon Contributor

THE Medical City (TMC) has significantly strengthened its position as among the leading Philippine healthcare institutions with its recent accreditation as an Academic Medical Center from the Joint Commission International (JCI).

The hospital’s elevated status includes specialized JCI certifications for its Stroke and Heart Attack Clinical Care Programs, validating its worldclass standards for managing two of the nation’s leading causes of death.

TMC leaders announced this distinction during the institution’s 58th anniversary celebration, held last October 27, 2025, at its facility in Ortigas, Pasig City.

In 2024, TMC was re-accredited by the JCI for its hospital program. This year, TMC was elevated as an Academic Medical Center, a distinction granted to healthcare organizations that integrate world-class clinical care with medical research and education.

This new status is driven by the institution’s Department of Advanced Medical Education (DEPAMED), which manages residency and fellowship programs to shape future medical specialists, and the Clinical and Translational Research Institute (CTRI), which bridges innovative biomedical research with clinical applications while adhering to international ethical standards.

JCI is the recognized global leader in healthcare, leveraging decades of expertise to help organizations achieve highly reliable care and patient safety. Its accreditation is globally regarded as the gold standard for hospital performance, granted only to institutions that meet stringent safety, quality, and continuous improvement requirements.

Specialized care programs

TMC’s Acute Myocardial Infarction (Heart Attack) Clinical Care Program received its fourth JCI certification in 2024, demonstrating consistent excellence in cardiac care.

Furthermore, the JCI accreditation for the Primary Stroke Program recognizes TMC’s leadership in comprehensive, time-sensitive stroke management from emergency response and diagnostics to rehabilitation and recovery. The program is anchored by the Brain Attack Team, a specialized unit composed of neurologists, a neurology resident, a stroke nurse, and an interventional neurosurgeon, who ensure immediate, coordinated care for patients within the critical window for stroke treatment.

With these accreditations, TMC proves it meets the international standard of excellence for managing both heart attack and stroke.

add life to those extended years,” he said. “That’s what we want to bring to our customers as well.”

ance industry has long dealt with longterm financial products, the increasing significance of longevity has changed the conversation.

“It’s not just about extending the life or adding the numbers to it but making sure the quality of those numbers are of a certain standard,” he told B usiness M irror

Three pillars of longevity

HORA emphasized that longevity is no longer about endurance but quality of life.

“It’s not only about just adding years to your life but reimagining how you can

He outlined three focus areas in Manulife’s longevity strategy: health, wealth, and sustainability.

He explained that while people are going to live longer, morbidity is also growing. “There will be longer years for people to live, but in all probability, they’re going to be living with sickness. It is extremely important that we work with our customers, first, possibly to avoid those sicknesses, but if not, to at least be

“These recognitions are not just milestones for The Medical City, but for Philippine healthcare,” said Dr. Ruben G. Kasala, EVP and CEO of The Medical City Ortigas.

“They represent our vision to integrate education, research, and patient care to continuously raise the standard of what hospitals in our country can deliver.”

As TMC marked its 58 years of service, Dr. Kasala said these recognitions reaffirm their mission to deliver trusted, world-class care to every Filipino. They also reflect the institution’s collective pursuit of excellence, driven by quality, compassion, and innovation across its entire network.

“For me, it’s not just about the certificates; it’s really about investing in quality care and upholding international standards for our patients,” said Dr. Stuart Bennett, President and Group CEO of The Medical City. “That’s why, my aim, at least for the next year or the year after, is to achieve enterprise-wide JCI accreditations,” he continued.

New brand ambassador ALSO at its 58th anniversary celebration, TMC welcomed its newest brand ambassador, Edu Manzano, who now supports the institution’s ongoing commitment to accessible and deeply human, world-class Filipino healthcare.

TMC launched a special video highlighting the hospital’s centers of excellence and the people behind its care. In the video, Manzano shared why he trusts the institution for his and his family’s healthcare needs.

“A partner is one that journeys with you, with sincerity and care in the face of imperfection,” Manzano said during the opening program of TMC’s anniversary.

“I’ve had a number of tests and procedures and I trust The Medical City for them because you don’t just treat illness, you care for the person. Because treating isn’t just [about] medicine,” he added.

Manzano’s partnership with TMC marks a new chapter in the hospital’s commitment to building trust and meaningful connections with the communities it serves. Known for his genuine warmth and integrity, the actor embodies the values that have defined the healthcare institution for nearly six decades.

“Edu represents the confidence and reassurance that patients seek in a healthcare partner. His credibility and connection with the Filipinos make him the perfect choice to help communicate what sets The Medical City apart: expertise anchored in malasakit,” said Dr. Bennett. For more information about The Medical City’s services, visit www. themedicalcity.com.

THE Medical City has been certified by the Joint Commission International as an Academic Medical Center.

DOH warns of health issues caused by volcanic activity

ON October 24, 2025, Kanlaon Volcano in Canlaon City, Negros Occidental erupted while Taal Volcano in Tagaytay City, Batangas exhibited two minor phreatomagmatic eruptions at its main crater on October 26.

With the continued unrest of the two volcanoes, the Department of Health (DOH) advised the residents to be vigilant.

The DOH said that when a volcano erupts and causes ash fall, these can cause respiratory problems, eye and skin irritation, and other health issues.

Volcanic ash, according to the DOH, consists of powder-size to sandsize particles that have been blown into the air by an erupting volcano.

The following are the health effects of volcanic activity:

n Nose and throat irritation

n Coughing

n Bronchitis-like illness

n Discomfort while breathing

n Eye irritation

n Minor skin problems

Injuries/death due to roof collapse or vehicular accident resulting from slippery roads and poor visibility

Hope and Health: Filipinos Redefining Life with Diabetes

LIVING with diabetes presents its challenges, but it doesn’t have to prevent individuals from leading full and active lives. Diabetes is a lifelong condition that happens when your body can’t produce enough insulin or use it properly, leading to elevated blood sugar levels over time. If left unmanaged, it can lead to serious health complications—but with the right care, you can stay in control. Nutrition plays a vital role in supporting a healthy and active lifestyle for people with diabetes. Studies have shown that diabetesspecific nutritional supplements like Glucerna offer complete, balanced nutrition and are clinically proven to help improve blood sugar control through slow glucose release, improved insulin sensitivity, and enhanced cardiometabolic health—especially when paired with medication and regular physical activity.

Real People, Real Journeys

OVER 4.7million of Filipinos are living with diabetes2 and many are not even aware they have the condition, like

Borromeo, 62, who discovered he had diabetes despite experiencing no symptoms. Ramon, a retired seaman, was diagnosed with diabetes in 1990 during a routine medical check before boarding a ship. His diagnosis motivated his change of lifestyle by cutting out sugary food, switching to a low-carb diet, and making sure to take his medications.

Years later, after experiencing nighttime signs of hypoglycemia, he was advised to take one serving of Glucerna by his doctor. As a result, his blood sugar dropped from 162 mg/dL to 108 mg/dL, enabling him to enjoy a peaceful sleep. Ramon’s case high -

lights the importance of tailored evening nutrition strategies in improving sleep quality and better glycemic control for older adults with diabetes.

Edna Panaligan Sta Ana, 64, believed she had “escaped” diabetes despite her mother’s diagnosis. This belief changed when her blood sugar reached 200 mg/dL, prompting her to take action following her diagnosis in 2003.

Edna developed a consistent daily routine which consists of doing light cardio exercises, preparing homecooked meals rich in vegetables and fiber, and drinking Glucerna twice a day, once in the morning and once before bed.

Today, she maintains her blood sugar at a healthier range of 120 mg/ dL. Her story shows that thriving with diabetes means not living with restrictions but building sustainable habits to support energy and overall health, especially in older adults.

Fueling Better Health Through Nutrition

RAMON and Edna’s journeys are strong testaments that proper nutrition can be a powerful ally in managing diabetes effectively. Paired with medication and regular physical activity, science-backed solutions like Glucerna provide structured nutritional support that helps regulate blood sugar so you can stay in control.

Managing diabetes isn’t about restrictions; it’s about balance. With the right knowledge, consistent daily actions, and supportive tools, small lifestyle changes can lead to meaningful, lasting progress.

Glucerna® is available in leading supermarkets, pharmacies, and online retailers nationwide. Learn more at: Abbott Glucerna.

The Secret to Better Energy and Focus? It All Begins in the Gut

THE journey to better health often comes with the pressure of having to make drastic changes but that need not always be the case. Better health— more energy, deeper sleep, improved focus—often begins with the simplest changes that are practical and consistent. And it starts at the center of it all, our Gut. According to Dr. Vipada Sae-Lao, Nutrition Education and Training Lead for Asia Pacific at Herbalife, revisiting traditional foods can be a powerful step toward nurturing our gut health, something Asian diets have supported naturally for centuries. Amidst the pressures of modern life, though, rice bowls are being swapped for burgers, fiber-rich vegetables are making way for processed snacks, and nourishing herbal broths are losing ground to sugary sodas.

Studies show that this dietary shift has become increasingly prevalent across Asia accompanied by a noticeable rise in digestive concerns such as bloating, acid reflux, irritable bowel symptoms, and more serious digestive disorders. As our lifestyles get busier, we tend to lean towards more convenient food practices—though if we are not careful these can affect our digestive health.

With the increased availability of fastfood establishments in the country in addition to the convenience and value for money brought by fast food, Filipinos tend to consume an unbalanced diet. Additionally, a 2020 study revealed how Filipino working adults have poor diet resulting in either under-nutrition or overweight and obesity. This not only affects their physical health but also their day-to-day activities, causing a 20% loss in productivity.

“I don’t mean to sound alarms but aim to

offer a gentle nudge—to pause and reflect on what our bodies truly need, and how our simple choices can make all the difference in achieving sustained wellness,” said Dr. Sae-Lao.

Your Gut Matters

FIRST, understanding the critical role the digestive system plays in our overall wellbeing is necessary. Often referred to as the “second brain,” the gut closely communicates with the brain, sending signals to manage the digestive process. Influencing immunity, energy levels, metabolism and mental health, the gut hosts a variety of microorganisms, which helps break down food that we can’t digest, make essential vitamins, and protect us from harmful germs. These microbes keep the gut lining strong and support the development of our immune system, especially during the early stages of life.

Ironically, one of the biggest barriers to better gut health is the food we eat. A lot of what we consume today lack in phytonutrients, dietary fiber and key nutrients that are needed by our body like potassium, magnesium, and vitamin D. Modern eating habits influenced by the western world—tend to include processed foods, refined sugars, and unhealthy fats— which can throw off the natural balance of the gut microbiome, reveal studies. This imbalance may trigger inflammation in the body and lead to common digestive issues like bloating, acid reflux, or constipation. Over time, it could also raise the risk of more serious, long-term health issues. The good news is that the solution could be as simple as understanding what our body needs and nourishing it with rich, time-tested mindful traditions. It’s not

about a dramatic overhaul but making small, intentional changes—and gradually building them into lasting habits. The goal is to take back control, one plate at a time.

Crave for Balanced Meals

ASIAN diets aren’t just cultural; they’re also rooted in science, confirms studies.

Rich in vegetables, whole grains, legumes, and fermented foods, these foods provide fiber, healthy fats, and essential nutrients that support digestion, heart health, and overall wellness. Probiotic rich foods likekimchi, miso, yogurt, pickles, or kombucha, strengthen the immune system and fortify gut health. Reports prove that herbs and spices like ginger, turmeric, garlic, and fennel not only provide flavor and aroma, but are beneficial for their digestive and medicinal properties.

Filipinos do not eat enough of certain foods necessary for a balanced diet. According to the 2023 National Nutrition Survey (NNS) released in December 2024, Filipinos’ consumption of fruits, corn, root crops, tubers, dried beans, nuts, and legumes remains low.

But worry not! From the simplest broth such as Tinola, to dishes with quite a number of ingredients such as Pinakbet, there will always be a meal that will satisfy your gut. The Filipino cuisine offers a variety of dishes that include ingredients that our gut craves. Additionally, knowing the right portions with the “pinggang pinoy,” helps in achieving a balanced and healthy diet.

Take Time to Eat BEYOND the choice of ingredients, mindful eating practices in Asia was designed to engage all our senses actively contributing to digestion and overall wellness. Tuning

into the body at meal times by paying attention to portion size, chewing thoroughly, savoring each bite, and eating without distractions can go a long way in supporting better digestion. Allowing the body time to activate digestive enzymes, these simple habits enhance nutrient absorption, and support better gut-brain communication, regulating hunger and fullness cues.

Our traditional diets are all about balance, care, and connection. A great starting point could be to understand the food we consume and how it supports our body’s individual needs. Studies show that people respond differently to the same foods basis their gut bacteria, making a one-size-fitsall diet approach less effective in the long run. A personalized nutrition approach helps understand how our gut responds to different foods, enabling choices that boost digestion, lower inflammation, and help us live our best lives.

Blending traditional food wisdom with practical habits for modern living, can help us rebuild a lifestyle that’s both nourishing and sustainable. Planning meals for the week ahead, batch cooking, or advance preparation can make all the difference on hectic days, helping you stay on track without the last-minute stress.

Lastly, don’t underestimate the powerful impact of these simple habits when practiced every single day like staying hydrated throughout the day, moving your body through activities you enjoy whether it’s a gym session, a walk, or even a good stretch routine, and making quality sleep a priority to support the body’s natural healing.

“Start small. Swap one meal, slow down for one bite, tune in to what feels good. Your gut can lead the way— just listen closely,” concluded Dr. Sae-Lao.

You can cope with ash fall through the following:

n Minimize exposure to ash

n Stay indoors as much as possible

n Keep doors and windows closed

n Keep home from infiltration by using damp curtains, blankets or clothing

n Use N95 masks

n Wear goggles or eyeglasses to protect eyes from irritation

IBy Rory Visco | Contributor

N Filipino homes today, not everyone who turns on the tap will have clean water. Rusty pipes, inconsistent supply, and dubious water quality have made what should be a basic right into a daily worry. No matter if it is for the breakfast coffeepot, your family meals, or just staying hydrated, water health has been disregarded despite being one of the most fundamental parts of a healthy life.

That’s why premium Korean brand Wells is making its way into Filipino households, as a timely reminder that good, safe water is foundational to wellness.

The everyday impact of good water

“Water is so fundamental to our daily routines—our morning coffee, our meal preparation, and of course, our everyday hydration,” Morris Richard Ang, President of Larx Trading, the official distributor of Wells products in the Philippines, pointed out during the launch. “The quality of water significantly impacts everything that we consume.”

In an age where convenience often trumps quality, Wells aims to bring both, at a time when Filipinos are now more mindful about their health and what they consume. With growing concerns over the country’s water distribution system, Wells offers a kind of quiet luxury that doubles as a health investment.

“Wells is all about elevating your lifestyle through premium water purification,” enthused Avelyn Lim, Larx Trading vice president, in presenting their products. “For a decade, Wells perfected the art of combining Korean engineering precision with thoughtful design. Now, we’re bringing that excellence to Filipino families who deserve nothing less than the best.”

Pure innovation meets design

AT the launch, Wells showcased its flagship model The One and its newly introduced Slim One, both of which are redefining how people see water purifiers, not as bulky kitchen utilities, but as integral parts of home design.

T he One features an ultra-compact 8.8-centimeter base, a 180-degree rotating body, and a 2.8-inch fullcolor display. It even detects the user through a body sensor, automatically lighting up when someone approaches. The design is so intuitive and minimal that it has bagged four major international design awards.

The Slim One, on the other hand, introduces Korea’s first Mineral Care System to the Philippines, enriching water with essential minerals such as calcium, magnesium, potassium, and silica, minerals that are often stripped away in traditional filtration systems.

“Wells is very particular about the minerals that we consume. Studies

n Wear long sleeves and pants

n Keep pets in closed shelter

n Clear your roof of ash

n Observe traffic notifications and road safety measurea

“Exposure to falling ash may cause a number of health problems. Anyone who already suffers from health problems such as bronchitis, emphysema, or asthma should avoid exposure to volcanic ash,” the DOH warned. Claudeth Mocon-Ciriaco

most now aspire to be financially independent and free.

This shift, Hora narrated, reflects a broader change in how Filipinos view aging, one that places purpose, well-being, and independence at the heart of longevity.

“Filipinos are beginning to view their future through a new lens, with our survey revealing a rising emphasis on living well, prioritizing independence, financial stability, and overall quality of life,” Hora said. “There’s a clear opportunity to bridge the gap between aspiration and action through practical, preventive solutions.”

show that we need those minerals. Wells values for us to still have those essential minerals when we drink our water,” Lim pointed out

A smarter way to hydrate WELLS’ systems are particularly relevant to today’s health-conscious consumers because of their control and precision. Users can customize both water volume (120 ml, 250 ml, or 550 ml) and temperature, allowing for optimal preparation of coffee, tea, or even when preparing baby milk.

“Water quality is already given because Wells adheres to high standards like its nine-step purification,” Ang narrated. “But with the water temperature, it’s crucial, especially in the drinks that you mix. Some customers want it just below boiling point, others want it just at zero. Everything you can control with Wells. It’s the control that gives our customers the power.”

The purifiers also feature dual filters—one that removes sediments and one that targets bacteria and viruses while preserving beneficial minerals. With this balance, Wells ensures not only purity but also taste and health. Lim reiterated that clean, mineralbalanced water isn’t just a convenience but a cornerstone of health. Studies have shown that poor water quality can lead to everything from gastrointestinal issues to weakened immunity. In a tropical country where heat and dehydration are everyday challenges, having access to consistent, highquality drinking water can make a real difference in one’s energy, digestion, and overall wellness.

It also affects the quality of food and beverages prepared at home. Ang continued by saying that even the simplest cup of tea or rice dish tastes noticeably different when prepared with clean, properly filtered water.

Redefining the Filipino lifestyle BUT more than just technology, Lim said Wells products bring a cultural shift. The brand treats water purification not merely as a functional task but as part of a lifestyle of care for one’s health, family, and living space. Its minimalist, color-customizable design (available in Red, Dark Brown, Mint, Pink, and White) makes it fit seamlessly into modern Filipino homes.

“When we encountered Wells back in 2020, we recognized immediately that this was a brand that aligned perfectly with our values,” Lim continued. “Your home deserves nothing less. Every product should perform exceptionally while complementing your living space aesthetically.” These days, bottled water has become more expensive and can pose environmental problems, but a home-based purifier like Wells offers a sustainable, long-term solution. It’s not just about convenience but about reclaiming confidence in the water that sustains man’s hydration needs.

Living better, together HORA summed up Manulife’s message through the symposium’s theme “Time to Move,” where he reiterated that longevity is not just an individual goal, but a collective effort—one that requires partnerships across industries and communities.

“We’re committed to turning these insights into action by offering solutions that support Filipinos in planning confidently, living meaningfully, and securing the future they envision,” Hora concluded.

Ramon

EDNA PANALIGAN STA ANA

RAMON BORROMEO

&Fitness

QUIETLY LEADING THE WAY

MakatiMed’s

By Anne Ruth Dela Cruz

FOR years, detecting skin cancer often meant undergoing a biopsy, an invasive procedure that can cause anxiety for patients and take time to yield results. But with the Dermagraphix, a cutting-edge skin imaging technology now available at Makati Medical Center (MakatiMed), that step can be delayed or even avoided. Using highresolution imaging, Dermagraphix allows dermatologists to analyze, detect, and monitor suspicious skin lesions non-invasively and with remarkable accuracy.

Dr. Maria Lourdes Aragon De Vera, head of the Skin and Laser Hub of MakatiMed, said the hospital is the first in the Philippines to offer Dermagraphix, underscoring its commitment to bringing advanced, world-class dermatologic care to Filipino patients.

“Here at Makati Medical Center, we bring you the latest innovation in dermatology with our advanced imaging system, the Dermagraphix,” said Dr. De Vera. “As the first hospital in the Philippines to offer this technology, MakatiMed is at the forefront in the analysis, detection, and monitoring of skin cancer, playing a vital role in early

ACCORDING to breast cancer advo -

cates, improving patient outcomes in the Philippines requires addressing two critical issues, namely, achieving equitable access to care and establishing a seamless, integrated network of services. Breast cancer patient advocate Kara Magsanoc-Alikpala, co-founder of ICanServe Foundation, and medical oncologist

Dr. Marvin Mendoza said that while breast cancer awareness has noticeably increased in urban centers, it still lags significantly in non-urban areas. And despite growing public awareness, the country continues to struggle with low breast cancer screening rates.

Magsanoc-Alikpala cited two barriers that prevent women from starting diagnosis and undergoing treatment.

“It really comes down to two things: one is fear of the cost, and number two, the myth that breast cancer is a death sentence,” she said. “We have to change that narrative. You can survive breast cancer, especially if the diagnosis is early, and you can even live longer, even with a Stage 4 diagnosis.”

“I always tell this to women: there is help and they won’t die,” said MagsanocAlikpala. “They’re not alone — the government is here, NGOs are here, and there are individual survivors.”

Lack of integrated services

DR. Mendoza, likewise, pointed out that for a newly diagnosed patient, the path to treatment is often a “mess” due to lack of integrated services. This fragmentation means patients are left to coordinate their own care across disconnected facilities, making a stressful journey unnecessarily complicated.

“Hopefully, in the years to come, there will be greater integration of services, such as improved relationships among private, public, and government institutions and stronger referral networks,” said Dr. Mendoza.

He explained that If a woman is diagnosed in the province and the necessary treatment or procedure is not available locally, there must be an institution or system capable of seamlessly connecting her to a larger facility that offers the required service.

Dr. Mendoza reiterated that, while screening and treatment have been available for patients in urban areas, he finds that the same is not readily available for those in rural areas.

“I think it’s important to highlight equitable access,” said Dr. Mendoza, a member

Dermagraphix Makes Early Skin Cancer Detection Possible

detection, and thus, saving lives.”

Seeing Beneath the Surface DERMAGRAPHIX uses sophisticated imaging to produce a detailed visualization of the skin’s surface and deeper structures. It enables dermatologists to map and monitor lesions, moles, and other skin conditions such as vitiligo, psoriasis, and even hair-related issues over time. By comparing baseline and follow-up images, physicians can spot subtle changes that may otherwise go unnoticed.

The technology is completely non-

invasive, offering patients a safer and more comfortable way to manage their skin health. It is particularly valuable in distinguishing between benign and malignant growths, allowing dermatologists to make informed decisions and reduce unnecessary biopsies or surgical procedures.

“Dermagraphix helps track the progression of lesions and changes in moles,” Dr. De Vera explained. “In just a few minutes, a detailed and precise assessment can be made, empowering patients to take proactive steps toward better, healthier skin.”

of the Philippine Society of Medical Oncology. “Mammograms, breast ultrasounds, they’ve been there, although it is only available in larger institutions; in some rural areas, they are not readily accessible. So in that aspect, we have a gap,” he added.

In 2023, it was noted by the Philippine Institute for Development Studies that the country has one of the lowest screening rates of breast cancer in the world, with only about 1% or 540,000 out of 54 million women undergoing cancer screening.

Bridging the gap

DR. Mendoza and Magsanoc-Alikpala were among the health experts and patient advocates who gathered recently to discuss the public health challenge posed by breast cancer, the most common cancer globally.

The forum highlighted the urgent need for early detection and introduced new treatment methods. With the theme ‘Bridging the Gap to Redefine Breast Cancer Care in the Philippines,’ the event brought together various stakeholders to discuss how they could ease the burden of breast cancer patients, emphasizing that the focus must shift from mere awareness to proactive calls for early testing, innovative approaches, and institutional support.

“We are here to give hope to women and breast cancer patients. By providing the public with the necessary knowledge, they can make informed decisions on whether to go for a consultation or seek treatment,” said Dr. Florge Francis Sy, Medical Oncology Consultant at the Philippine General Hospital.

Free Filipino Women from Breast Cancer Act

IN a statement, the principal author of the “Free Filipino Women from Breast Cancer Act,” Rep. Aniela Tolentino of the 8th District of Cavite, vowed to have her bill passed in Congress to help Filipino women living with breast cancer financially. “With the proposed Free Filipino Wom -

en from Breast Cancer Act, we will be able to address every unique story and journey that a Filipino woman will face when hit by breast cancer,” Tolentino said. “The state will be able to provide Filipino women with accessible and affordable medical treatment for breast cancer.”

The proposed bill aims to provide free breast cancer screenings for Filipino women who are at least 45 years old and for indigent women aged under 45.

Dr. Cyril Tolosa, Medical Affairs Director at AstraZeneca Philippines, said that with science and holistic approaches, the sector can bridge healthcare gaps for breast cancer patients.

“We are pioneering the adoption of precision diagnostics and digital pathology using AI to support the accurate and timely diagnosis of breast cancer and personalized treatment for each patient,” said Dr. Tolosa.

Biomarker testing

THIS shift involves extensive support for biomarker testing, which identifies specific signs and genetic mutations, a critical step for guiding targeted, or “laser-focused,” treatments that are more effective and tolerable than traditional chemotherapy.

Leading this transformation requires three essential ingredients: robust collaboration with medical experts, patient groups, and both private and public sectors (including legislative support); continuous development of innovative medicines; and sustained pioneering science, which is the ultimate driver for improving patient outcomes.

The forum ended with a clear commitment to reshape the future of breast cancer care in the Philippines, leveraging shared knowledge and policy execution to reduce late-stage diagnoses and ensure that no Filipino patient faces the breast cancer battle alone.

For more information and resources on Breast Cancer, you may visit AstraZeneca’s website regarding the disease.

USING high-resolution imaging, Dermagraphix allows dermatologists to analyze, detect, and monitor suspicious skin lesions non-invasively and with remarkable accuracy.

Changing the Landscape of Skin Cancer Detection

THE most frequent types of skin cancer are basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma and are primarily caused by chronic sun exposure. Meanwhile, melanoma, though less common, is considered the most dangerous form because it

By Justine Xyrah Garcia

REGULAR breast self-examinations remain a woman’s first line of defense against breast cancer, according to Dr. Rowena Galarpe-Pedrajas of the Philippine Cancer Society, who stressed that early detection can spell the difference between survival and late-stage diagnosis.

Speaking during Avon’s Feel Yourself Pink campus tour in the University of Santo Tomas (UST), Pedrajas said that performing a monthly breast self-check (BSE) helps women develop awareness of their own bodies and detect changes before symptoms worsen.

“By doing your monthly self-check, you become familiar with how your breasts look and feel,” she said. “If there’s something new—a lump, change in texture, or discharge— you’ll know it’s not normal for you.”

Pedrajas explained that the ideal time for young women to perform a BSE is five to seven days after menstruation, when hormonal changes that cause tenderness have subsided.

For women who no longer have their periods, she suggested setting a fixed date each month.

EVERY year stroke affects an estimat -

ed half a million Filipinos, claiming the lives of over 87,000, making it the second leading cause of death in the Philippines.

In response to this crisis, Mary Mediatrix Medical Center (MMMC), a tertiary hospital in Lipa, Batangas, has launched its Institute for Clinical Neurosciences to help ease the burden for patients in Southern Luzon.

“The Institute for Clinical Neurosciences is providing neurology expertise to treat stroke and other brain diseases. At the same time, it is bringing in advanced equipment like MRI machines, CT Scans, neuro-microscope for neurological procedures, EMG-NCV machines, EEGs; and an epilepsy monitoring unit,” said Dr. Edna Cuasay, Chief of the Institute for Clinical Neurosciences of MMMC.

The new Center for Excellence is intended to address the shortage of neurologists in Batangas and nearby provinces as well as provide advanced, high-tech diagnostic and treatment services, and research to add

can spread quickly if not detected and treated early.

Despite increasing awareness, many cases in the country are diagnosed at a late stage, when treatment options become more complex. This delay is often linked to limited access to dermatologic specialists and diagnostic tools, as well as low public awareness about early warning signs.

With Dermagraphix, MakatiMed aims to change this reality. The system captures detailed, full-body photographs that dermatologists can examine on-screen. Suspicious spots are then evaluated through dermoscopy, a diagnostic method that uses magnification and light to reveal deeper structures of the skin not visible to the naked eye.

“Patients can come every year for monitoring,” said Dr. De Vera. “Even for malignant lesions that have been removed, we can continually monitor them over the years to check for recurrence.”

This capability allows dermatologists to establish a personalized monitoring plan, ensuring that any changes in a patient’s skin are detected promptly. The result is greater diagnostic precision and earlier intervention; two critical factors that can dramatically improve survival rates.

While mammograms and other screening tools remain vital, she said the self-exam is an inexpensive and accessible method, particularly in areas where diagnostic equipment may not be readily available.

“It’s a valuable tool for early detection and empowers women to seek timely care,” she added.

Awareness over fear

PEDREJAS noted that 90 percent of breast cancer cases are not hereditary, underscoring the need for vigilance among all women.

“Age and gender are risk factors we cannot change, but lifestyle choices like maintaining a healthy weight, exercising regularly, and managing stress can reduce our risk,” she said.

She added that obesity, physical inactivity, and poor diet all contribute to higher exposure to hormones that increase cancer risk.

She recommended at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week and a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, while avoiding processed food like bacon and hotdogs.

“Mental health is also part of self-care,” Pedrajas added. “When we take care of our well-being, we also

to the knowledge resources for brain diseases in the country. Stroke is also known as “brain attack.”

Dr. Cuasay added, “It used to be that the only venues for training neurologists were concentrated in NCR. However, thanks to the efforts of both government and tertiary hospitals, we are expanding these training facilities outside NCR. Here in Southern Luzon, we have only one neurology training facility which is Mary Mediatrix Medical Center.”

According to Dr. Cuasay there are two types of stroke: an ischemic stroke where a blood clot blocks a brain blood vessel; and a hemorrhagic stroke where a brain vessel bursts and bleeds.

“Here in Mary Mediatrix, we have full services to perform procedures that treat both types of strokes. Whether that calls for a thrombolysis that can reverse the stroke or removing the blood clot through thrombectomy or the basket method,” she explained.

Dr. Cuasay said that stroke is the number one cause of disability in the Philippines and in Batangas. She underscored the cru -

Precision, Prevention, and Peace of Mind

BEYOND detection, Dermagraphix supports long-term monitoring and personalized treatment planning. Its comprehensive database stores and compares high-resolution images taken over multiple visits, helping doctors identify even the smallest variations in size, shape, or color of moles and lesions.

“Through this high-resolution imagery, a tailored treatment strategy offers peace of mind and clarity to our patients’ journey to healthy skin,” Dr. De Vera added. This approach underscores MakatiMed’s vision of precision dermatology, where early detection, continuous monitoring, and patient education all work together to prevent disease progression. For patients, it means fewer unnecessary procedures and a more proactive, informed role in managing their skin health. As the incidence of skin cancer continues to rise globally and locally, innovations like Dermagraphix represent a critical advancement. By offering a quick, accurate, and noninvasive way to evaluate skin lesions, MakatiMed gives patients a powerful tool in the fight against cancer, one that can quite literally save lives by seeing what the naked eye cannot.

strengthen our immunity.”

Choosing the right bra AVON representative Margot Pingcas reminded students that breast care also includes finding the right bra fit, one that provides both comfort and support.

She said women should consider four factors when choosing a bra: tactile comfort (how the fabric feels on the skin), motion comfort (how it moves with the body), thermal comfort (how breathable and cool it feels), and aesthetic comfort (how it complements one’s body shape and outfit). She advised women to get measured every six months, since body size and shape can change due to factors like weight fluctuations and hormonal shifts.

“Listen to your body,” she said. “If the straps keep falling off, your skin feels irritated, or the cups have gaps, then that bra is not the right fit for you.”

Avon’s Feel Yourself Pink Campus Tour will run until November, visiting 11 universities in Luzon and Visayas to promote breast cancer awareness, early detection, and self-care among young women.

cial importance of responding as quickly as possible in cases of disabling, potentially fatal diseases like stroke.

“Time is the most important factor not only in saving a patient’s life but also in helping a patient recover and restore quality of life,” she noted. “When responders, whether emergency personnel, doctors, or loved ones, save time in accessing treatment for a patient, they are saving lives.” Through the new Institute for Clinical Neurosciences of MMMC, patients in Southern Tagalog, and even as far as Quezon or Bicol can now access advanced, effective treatment for stroke and other brain conditions faster. Those disabled by stroke will have a greater chance to recover mobility and restore physical and mental functions through medical treatment and therapy. With the opening of the Institute for Clinical Neurosciences, Mary Mediatrix Medical Center now has four Centers for Excellence including their Cancer Institute, Kidney Institute, and Cardiovascular Institute. For more information, call +63 43 773 6800.

DR. Maria Lourdes Aragon De Vera explains the findings of the Dermagraphix machine to a patient

IN the photo are, from left. Dr. Florge Francis Sy, Medical Oncology Consultant at the Philippine General Hospital; Dr. Marvin Mendoza, Medical Oncology Consultant at St. Luke’s Medical Center; Kara Magsanoc-Alikpala, cofounder of IcanServe Foundation and Dr. Cyril Tolosa, Medical Affairs Director at AstraZeneca Philippines.

Smoking among the youth has doubled in just 2 years–DOST

DESPITE the warnings of health authorities on the hazards of smoking, smoking among the youth in the Philippines has doubled in just two years.

Interestingly,  health officials say the culprit is clear: the steadfast influx of cheap, illegal cigarettes and unregulated vapes that have made nicotine more accessible to teenagers than ever before.

According to the latest data from the Food and Nutrition Institute–Department of Science  and Technology (FNRI-DOST), 4.8 percent of Filipinos aged 10 to 19 smoked in 2023, up from 2.3 percent in 2021.

The upsurge is steepest among older teens, with nearly 14 percent of 18 to 19-year-olds now smokers, while vaping among youth smokers surged from 7.5 percent to almost 40 percent in the same period.

Unregulated products

HEALTH Secretary Teodoro Herbosa explained this shift in a recent forum

where he also detailed the specific dangers of the unregulated products flooding the market. “When we increased the price of cigarettes, smoking prevalence went down from 27 p ercent down to 19 percent,” he said. “Unfortunately, vaping became popular. Now, more of our countrymen are hooked on vaping.”

The Department of Trade and Industry reported seizing P41 million worth of illicit vapes  between January and May 2025, spanning 88 brands. Nonetheless, officials admit this is just a  fraction of what circulates nationwide.

Independent monitoring shows that nearly one in five cigarettes sold in the country come from illegal sources, a shadow market that thrives on weak enforcement and porous borders.

Earlier initiation

ACCORDING to government authorities, confiscated goods showed cigarette packs selling for as low as P40 a pack, a fraction of legal, taxpaid brands sold at a P130/pack. The smuggled cigarettes drastically lower the price barrier for price-sensitive teens, resulting in a generation initiated into smoking earlier and more cheaply, with addiction rates climbing sharply.

In the DOST-FNRI survey presented last year, nutrition researchers warned that these numbers point to a looming health crisis.

Furthermore, the same FNRI study indicated that smoking prevalence among adults has also increased to 23.2 percent of the adult population in 2023 from only 18.5 percent in 2021, the first time since 2005 that smoking incidence in the country increased. It was also the year when the Philippines signed the World Health Organization Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (WHOFCTC) and enacted several laws on tobacco control including the Sin Tax

Law, Graphic Health Warnings Law.

Despite the laws that are in place, illicit cigarettes and vapes continue to proliferate, a sign of weak enforcement from both the national and local governments.

Economic problem

PUBLIC health and good governance advocate Pinoy Aksyon argues the problem is not just medical but also economic. Excise taxes on cigarettes and vapes are supposed to  bankroll the Universal Health Care law, but the government loses at least P40 billion annually to illicit trade.

Pinoy Aksyon convenor Bencyrus Ellorin urged the government to clamp down on smuggling routes, illegal distributors and online sellers. “Even in online shopping platforms, fake and illegal cigarettes are so accessible. The country faces both an overwhelmed health system and a new generation locked into nicotine addiction.

“We ask the government to look into this crisis deeply and implement laws,” Pinoy Aksyon warns.

Rizal Raoul S. Reyes

PSG plans an all-year round colorectal cancer awareness program

TBy Dr. Jun R. Ruiz

HE Philippine Society of Gastroenterology (PSG) through its Council on Gastrointestinal Malignancies conducted a community lay forum on colorectal cancer (CRC) and a workshop for barangay health workers on CRC screening last August 19, 2025 in Batangas City. This marks the first major campaign on colorectal cancer screening through community outreach in the Philippines outside of March, which is the official month of this cancer awareness.

The kickoff event was organized by the Council on GI Malignancies, led by this writer who heads the council in collaboration with the PSG Southern Luzon Chapter headed by its President, Dr. Donnazon ReyesMacasaet. The speakers included this writer, Dr. Joseph Nino Espino, and Dr. Inah Coronel. The first session was a lay lecture on colorectal cancer, its clinical presentations, diagnosis, treatment, and screening options. A call to action was recommended by the speakers to encourage timely screening, a healthy lifestyle, and early detection to prevent and treat the cancer effectively. The second session was a workshop for barangay health workers (BHWs) as physician’s partners in promoting CRC awareness and in identifying eligible patients in their communities for screening to be linked to the proposed national CRC screening program. Fecal Immunochemical Test (FIT) cards were

distributed to the eligible patients among the audience of 115 persons.

Those who tested positive were subsequently scheduled for their screening colonoscopy during the Endoscopy Caravan organized by the Philippine Society of Digestive Endoscopy which was held two weeks after in the same locality.

Prevalence of Colorectal Cancer in the Philippines

COLORECTAL cancer is the third most common cancer in the Philippines. An estimated 20,736 patients were diagnosed to have a new cancer in the colon or rectum in 2022 based on the data of the Global Cancer Observatory (GLOBOCAN). This cancer is the fourth most common cause of cancer mortality among Filipinos. The Philippine Society of Gastroenterology is the lead organization in gastrointestinal health and endoscopy in the national and international health agenda in the country. PSG has been leading several physician organizations and societies in promoting colorectal cancer screening and early diagnosis in the Philippines. March has been designated as “Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month” by the World Health Organization (WHO) and its International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC). This advocacy started in 2000 in the United States and serves to highlight the importance of screening and prevention for this cancer. This worldwide initiative aims to raise awareness about colorectal cancer, also the 3rd most common cancer globally.

Colorectal Cancer Awareness Program in the Philippines

STARTING this year, the Council on GI Malignancies is promoting the expansion of this cancer awareness among Filipino patients from the traditional March celebration into a whole-year campaign. This strategy will strengthen and solidify this growing advocacy, which is not only advocated by gastroenterologists but now joined by colorectal surgeon and medical oncology groups.

This expansion will result in more time for health promotion for this deadly cancer, through community outreach and health education of the disease. Learning via face-to-face forums and through social media will be the essential foundation in further spreading the advocacy in the country. This is indeed a pioneer development in increasing efforts in the CRC public awareness program among the organizations and agencies promoting this movement in the country.

This premier activity was held at the Kumintang Ibaba Barangay Hall in Batangas City on August 17, 2025. The strong support and presence of the gastroenterologist-members of the PSG Southern Luzon Chapter ignited the passion, community and bayanihan spirit for the advocacy, reflective of the ideals of our society. There were 115 attendees at the venue.

Dr. Ruiz stressed that “colorectal cancer is a preventable disease” that can be achieved by removing polyps in the colon during a colonoscopy and reducing its risk by healthy lifestyle habits. Dr. Espino discussed the basics

of colon cancer information appropriate for lay people. Dr. Coronel who gave the first ever lecture to barangay health workers on orienting them on how to recruit eligible patients for FIT screening, including how to collect specimens. In addition to the activity proper of the lay forum, there were a lot of enticements for the audience, like free food and fun exercises.

A barangay health worker (BHW) is a community-based volunteer trained to provide primary healthcare services. They are the first point of contact for the persons in their respective communities, and bridge the gap between the locality and the formal health system.

The Barangay Health Worker’s Manual on Colorectal Cancer Screening and Diagnosis is a priority project of the PSG President Rommel P. Romano and the PSG Board. This was tested during this activity and will continue to be a work in progress throughout the year until it is finalized for presentation to the Department of Health next year. This initiative will be one of the keys to success in the implementation of the proposed national colorectal cancer program to detect cancer early or in its pre-cancerous state.

Dr. Jun R. Ruiz is a Philippine and American board-certified gastroenterologist. He is the Head of the Council on Gastrointestinal Malignancies of the Philippine Society of Gastroenterology. He is also the Lead for Colon Cancer Screening of The Medical City, an advocate, and occasional journalist.

Health as the Ultimate Flex: Inside the DOH’s PinaSigla Fair at Luneta

By Nicole Paler Contributor

AT this health fair, your blood pressure isn’t the only thing tested. Your stamina is, too, along with your aim, your balance, even your general sense of fun. Complete a few mini challenges, collect stamps, and you walk away not only with freebies, but with something far more useful: a better picture of your health. This was the PinaSigla Health Fair, part of the Department of Health’s (DOH) official launch of their campaign, “PinaSigla: Isang Flex para sa Masiglang Pilipinas.” In today’s social media culture, where “flexing” is all about showing pride, PinaSigla redefines what it means to flex; that the ultimate thing to be proud of is your health. As part of a national health movement, the campaign encouraged active lifestyles, preventive care, and bringing

wellness closer to local communities. Burnham Green, Rizal Park in Luneta was transformed into a thriving center of movement, music, and medical care during the event, which took place on October 4 and 5, 2025, from 7 am to 5 pm.

Causes of death

THE event was timely as heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and hypertension are noted by the DOH to be lifestyle diseases that continue to rank among the leading causes of death in the Philippines. More than one in four persons in the Philippines suffer from hypertension, and over 4.3 million have diabetes, with an additional 2.8 million people going untreated. More recently, the number of HIV diagnoses increased by 50 percent in just the first quarter of 2025, with almost one-third of those cases involving young people between the ages of 15 and 24.

“Ito ay launch lamang ng PinaSigla. Very important na gagawin natin ito in every region, in every province para maitaguyod ang mga importanteng aspeto ng kalusugan, [This is just the launch of PinaSigla. It is very important that we do this in every region, in every province to promote the important aspects of health],” said Health Secretary Teodoro Herbosa, emphasizing that this was just the beginning of a nationwide movement.

The DOH’s message is simple yet powerful, as Assistant Secretary Alberto Domingo explained to BusinessMirror and other media, “Hindi sa hospital nagsisimula ang kalusugan. Nagsisimula ito sa pamilya at sa komunidad.” Domingo added, “Itong event na ito ay hindi para lang magkaroon tayo ng event. Ang gagawin natin is magkakaroon tayo ng mga smaller events sa mga iba-ibang mga lugar [This event is not just for us to have an event. What we will

AWELLNESS hub conceptualized in the early 2020s is now open to the public at the San Juan Medical Center (SJMC). It is the first of its kind in a local government health facility and redefines what care really means, serving not only the sick but also the well. It focuses on the whole person, mind, body and spirit, not on the disease.

Construction of the San Juan Medical Center Wellness Hub was made possible through the collaborative efforts of SM Foundation, SJMC and the local government unit of San Juan.

Unlike other wellness centers donated to public health centers by SM Foundation, the San Juan Medical Center Wellness Hub is designed to promote preventive health care and provide holistic services to patients, healthcare workers and nearby communities.

The turnover ceremony of the facility was attended by San Juan City government officials led by Mayor Francis Zamora, SJMC Medical Director Dr. Joseph Acosta and healthcare professionals; SM Foundation Executive Director for Health and Wellness Connie Angeles and other foundation officials; and SM Sta. Mesa officers.

Beyond the reach of masses ACCORDING to Dr. Acosta, wellness centers have existed in the Philippines since the 70s but these were in big private hospitals where annual checkups, lifestyle services and preventive screenings were offered. These services, however, were beyond the reach of the masses.

Acosta, a former surgeon general of the Armed Forces of the Philippines, said that a real charity hospital is not just a place to treat the sick. “It’s a place that keeps people well.”

When the wellness hub was being conceptualized, “we had no clear funding source because budgets are for the sick not for the well. But we had a clear vision to build a space for wellness in a public health system,” Acosta said. He reached out to SM Foundation, long-time partner in the renovation of military health facilities during his term as Commander of the AFP Medical Center.

Meanwhile, SM Foundation’s Angeles said the wellness hub aims to shift the Pinoy health habit from late care to early prevention.

Screening

DR . Dale Raymond V. Mariano,

SJMC’s

do is we will have smaller events in other places],” reiterating that the DOH aims to organize similar family fairs every quarter in various regions.

Core activity

THE Health Circ8 Challenge was the core activity of the PinaSigla Health Fair that encouraged participants to visit all eight booths covering nutrition, physical activity, mental health, reproductive health, and immunization services, among others. Across Luneta, visitors lined up for free checkups, blood donations and lab screenings—from blood sugar and cholesterol tests to vaccinations, x-rays for TB and HIV testing. But every booth added a fun twist: quick games, Zumba sessions, and short health quizzes where participants earned stamps to complete the Health Circ8 Challenge. According to Domingo, the challenge

originally included only seven stations. However, following the recent earthquake in Cebu, officials decided to add an eighth booth dedicated to blood donation, emphasizing its role as both a preventive health measure and a preparedness activity amid renewed concerns over a possible major earthquake in Metro Manila. He said the adjustment reflected the program’s flexibility and responsiveness to current events. Domingo added that future PinaSigla fairs will likely be held on a quarterly basis starting January next year, with each event possibly featuring a different health theme such as post-holiday fitness in January or reproductive health awareness in February.

Community-based THAT approach, making wellness interactive and community-based, captures the very spirit of PinaSigla. While the free check-ups greatly help the community, especially those who cannot bear the added monetary burden of doing said

Assistant chief of clinics said cardiovascular disorders which is one of the leading causes of death, are modifiable. The risk of heart attack and stroke minimized with screening which the wellness hub can provide. The hub provides programs focused on prevention and wellness, such as health screenings, nutrition counseling, stress management, fitness classes, mental health support and patient education. Care is delivered by a multidisciplinary team of doctors, nurses, nutritionists, therapists, fitnesscoaches and counselors, supported by modern tools and community partnerships.

The new facility houses the Nursing Lounge, Changing Area, Teen Thrive Women’s Health, Men’s Health, Lifestyle Medicine, Comprehensive Care Suite, Sight and Sound, Diagnostic Suite, and Medication Chapel. It is equipped with energy efficient fixtures and inverter appliances. In the pipeline is the expansion of its services to include Bite and Smile (Dental), Clear Imaging (Radiology), and Kinetics and Vitality (Gym).

Medical mission BEFORE the turnover, SM Foundation held a medical mission providing free services such as ECG, X-ray, and blood screening as well as essential medicines.The medical mission benefitted a total 127 patients and dispensed 331 services namely: medical consultations (127), x-ray (25), ECG (39), glucose test (40), cholesterol test (33), uric acid test (38), hemoglobin test (21), and compete blood chemistry (8).

One of those who queued for the medical mission was Emelinda M. Javier of Barangay Balong Bato who said she grabbed the opportunity as the medical services were free. “I grabbed the opportunity because I would be able to save money.”

According to Dr. Teodorito R. Rejano, Jr., an Internal Medicine resident of San Juan Medical Center and one of the doctors in the medical mission, many of the patients’ concerns were hypertension, diabetes, cough and colds. SM Foundation recognizes that healthcare is vital to strong resilient communities. It continues to invest in its health and wellness advocacy through medical missions and renovating healthcare centers nationwide. The SJMC Wellness Hub is its 222nd renovated public health facility.

medical tests, the fair also encouraged visitors to see health not just as a routine or obligation, but as something joyful and empowering. After all, wellness doesn’t have to be sterile; it can be social, vibrant, and fun.

The DOH also placed a special focus on youth engagement, recognizing that younger Filipinos are among the most affected by modern health challenges. Through interactive demos on road safety, handwashing, disaster preparedness, stress management, family planning, and fitness, the event made health learning relatable and accessible. In a country often tested by disasters and public health challenges, that collective energy matters. When communities are strong, informed, and active, they are better equipped to care for one another. That, perhaps, is the deeper meaning of sigla. More than energy, it’s shared optimism. A bayanihan for the body and mind, a reminder that every small effort counts toward a stronger, better nation.

SM Foundation turns over Wellness Hub to San Juan Medical

STEADFAST LEADERSHIP AMID SHIFTING CURRENTS

Singapore, PHL tighten bonds as Asean enters a new chapter

FOR Ambassador Constance See of Singapore, diplomacy is best measured by how it brings nations closer through shared aspirations.

In her view, the enduring partnership between our two republics continues to thrive on trust, innovation, and a commitment to regional stability—qualities that make both vital anchors in Southeast Asia’s fastchanging landscape.

Following a year of milestone exchanges and leadership visits, the relationship between the two nations has taken on new momentum. The successive meetings of their government leaders reaffirmed a mutual focus on sustainable development, clean energy transition, digital transformation, and inclusive growth. These collaborations, according to See, are not just agreements on paper but long-term investments in resilience and opportunity.

Beyond trade and technology, Singapore’s envoy underscores the human dimension of diplomacy— its expression through education, culture, and compassion. Whether in joint conservation projects, humanitarian aid missions, or academic exchanges, the ties between the Asean neighbors reflect a partnership that is both practical and profoundly personal.

Having immersed herself in local communities, the island-state’s top envoy to Manila describes the Philippines as a nation whose creativity and optimism continually inspire her.

ENVOYS&EXPATS: What key areas of our countries’ strategic cooperation are being strength-

ened following President Marcos Jr.’s official visit to Singapore, and ahead of the Philippines’ Asean chairship in 2026? How is the embassy advancing investor confidence and new partnerships in emerging sectors like green energy, digital trade, and infrastructure?

SEE: Singapore and the Philippines enjoy a vibrant and multifaceted partnership. Our relations are on a strong, upward trajectory, building on the momentum of our diplomatic ties’ 55th anniversary in 2024. We were honored to welcome President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to Singapore in June 2024 to deliver the keynote address at the Shangri-La Dialogue—Asia’s premier defense and security forum. Two months later, President Tharman Shanmugaratnam made a state visit to the Philippines, when both sides signed landmark memoranda of agreements (MOUs) on carbon credits collaboration as well as on recruitment of Filipino healthcare workers.

High-level engagements have continued apace. Prime Minister Lawrence Wong’s official visit to the Philippines in June 2025, which was his first bilateral trip after winning the Singapore General Elections in May 2025, reaffirmed our commitment to further deepen ties and expand cooperation in forward looking areas

such as renewable energy and carbon credits. These engagements will refresh our bilateral slate, preparing our countries for future challenges.

As Singapore consistently ranks among the top five investors in the Philippines, our companies continue to view this country as a dynamic and promising investment destination. In the second quarter of 2025, Singapore was the leading source of foreign investment pledges, contributing P53.5 billion, or nearly 80 percent of the total approved foreign investments. Between 2020 and 2023, our investments surged by over 50 percent—a clear vote of confidence in its economic potential.

The green energy transition is a major draw. Recent investments include Sembcorp Industries’ P4.7billion acquisition of a 96-megawatt solar farm in Negros Occidental, and Vena Energy’s P20.2-billion investment in a 304-megawatt wind park in Samar. Both align with the Philippines’ renewable energy targets of 35 percent by 2030 and 50 percent by 2040, while creating jobs and stimulating growth in the green economy. In November 2025, Enterprise Singapore, together with the Global Wind Energy Council, will host the Philippines-Singapore Offshore Wind Forum to advance discussions on the development and financing of local offshore wind infrastructure.

I am particularly excited about our partnership in carbon credits— a new and forward-looking area of cooperation that speaks to our two countries’ shared commitment to a greener future. The Philippines has immense potential in carbon markets, given its rich biodiversity and abundant renewable energy sources. Policies such as the Philippine Carbon Regulations and the Low Carbon

Economy Investment Bill will create a robust environment for high-quality, high-integrity credits.

For its part, Singapore brings expertise in green finance and market standards. In August 2024, our governments signed an MOU on carbon credits collaboration under Article 6 of the Paris Agreement. We are now negotiating a legally binding Implementation Agreement that will set the framework for generating and transferring high-integrity carbon credits to support sustainable development, create jobs, and uplift local communities.

In October 2025, the Singapore Embassy, in collaboration with Makati Business Club, hosted the first ever High-Level Forum on Carbon Credits, bringing together over 200 Philippine and Singapore government and business leaders to explore pathways for carbon credits cooperation. Singapore continues to deepen this partnership, fostering innovative solutions to tackle future energy and sustainability challenges including advancing the Asean Power Grid for enhanced regional energy resilience.

Beyond sustainability, both sides are updating economic frameworks. We are also working together to update the 1977 Double Taxation Agreement to bring it in line with today’s digital economy. This renegotiation aims to reduce transaction costs, enhance investor confidence and facilitate cross-border trade in goods, services and data. Modernizing the DTA will create a seamless environment for businesses and strengthen our partnership.

I would also like to highlight our conservation efforts. Mandai Nature, in collaboration with Talarak Foundation in Negros Occidental

and Katala Foundation in Palawan, has repatriated critically endangered species such as the Negros bleedingheart pigeon and hatched the first Philippine cockatoo at Singapore’s Bird Paradise this year.

Since May 2019, Mandai has also been entrusted with the care of the iconic Philippine Eagle, further deepening our commitment to preserving endangered species. Moving forward, we are eager to expand these partnerships to support the long-term survival of these and other threatened species, contributing to the Philippines’ rich biodiversity and our shared environmental goals.

Partnerships extend beyond environmental protection to infrastructure and connectivity. As of June 2025, there are more than 150 weekly flights between Singapore and the Philippines. Singapore Airlines and Scoot now fly to five destinations across this beautiful archipelago: Manila, Clark, Cebu, Davao, and Iloilo. They reflect the depth of our business exchanges and people-topeople ties.

Over the years, Singapore has developed expertise in smart and sustainable infrastructure. The partnership between the Cebu provincial government and Singapore’s Infrastructure Asia— formalized through a September 2024 MOU—advances cooperation in water, waste, renewable energy, and transportation solutions. Sixteen Singapore firms are contributing to the housing and aviation hub plans for New Clark City, while Changi Airport Group— one of the partners managing Clark International Airport—is exploring participation in the P12.9-billion modernization project of Davao International Airport. These projects demonstrate our shared vision of

inclusive and sustainable growth. The Philippines can also count on Singapore as a steadfast and reliable partner when it matters most. When Tropical Storm Kristine, or known as “Trami” internationally, struck in October 2024, the Singapore Armed Forces deployed a Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief mission that saw the Republic of Singapore Air Force C-130 aircraft carry out 16 sorties and delivered nearly 70 tons of emergency supplies to affected communities—a practical demonstration of our 2023 HADR Agreement in action.

We have also contributed assistance through the Singapore Red Cross, including during the recent earthquakes in Cebu and Davao Oriental. The SRC works closely with the Philippine Red Cross to distribute urgent medical aid, water and sanitation support for displaced families, while also launching a public fundraising appeal to support ongoing relief and recovery efforts. These actions demonstrate Singapore’s practical and timely assistance when our neighbors need it the most. In November 2025, our two foreign ministries will hold the seventh Informal Consultations on the Philippines-Singapore Action Plan to take stock of our bilateral cooperation and explore new areas of partnership.

Your thoughts on Asean leadership transitions and regional diplomacy. Asean remains the cornerstone of regional stability and prosperity, especially amid sharper rivalries, economic fragmentation, and shifting alignments.

STEADFAST

Envoy, spouse headline cultural-exchange events

AMBASSADOR Kazuya Endo and Madame Akiko Endo recently led notable events that further strengthened cultural linkages between Japan and the Philippines.

On October 21, the couple received a courtesy call from the Philippines’ representative to the 2025 Miss International Myrna Esguerra at the Ambassador’s residence in Makati City.

In preparation for Esguerra’s exciting journey to Japan to prepare for the Miss International Beauty Pageant, Ambassador and Madame Endo shared insightful knowledge on Japan’s rich culture and treasured traditions. The candidate also learned about the enduring and ever-flourishing friendship between Japan and the Philippines, as both countries will celebrate the 70th Anniversary of Friendship next year.

Fully immersing herself in the beauty and wonders of Japan, Esguerra had the rare opportunity to join Madame Endo in a captivating traditional tea ceremony, where the former gained firsthand experience of the practice’s intricate preparation and deep cultural heritage.

The Embassy of Japan congratulated the Philippines’ candidate on “this wonderful milestone. We look forward to seeing her shine as she showcases Filipino beauty and excellence on the world stage in Tokyo, Japan this November.”

Crowned as Binibining Pilipinas International 2024, Esguerra is set to fly to Japan next month for the 63rd Miss International Beauty Pag-

eant at the Yoyogi National Stadium in Shibuya, Tokyo to be held on November 27.

Supporting fashion MEANWHILE, Ambassador and Madame Endo attended the final awarding ceremony of The Grant by Fashion Aid Philippines’at the Centro Turismo de Intramuros in Manila on October 2.

The Grant is Fashion Aid Philippines’ flagship initiative aimed at providing broader opportunities for emerging Filipino talents in the fields of fashion and design. Apart from supporting new generations of Filipino creatives, Fashion Aid also aims to promote the cultural, social, and economic consciousness of the Filipino public on the Philippine fashion and creative arts industries.

This year, three of The Grant’s recipients will be participating in the Japan-East Asia Network of Exchange for Students and Youths Programme or JENESYS. Focusing on

Continued from B1

Japanese Language and Culture, the participants will be part of the Philippines’ official delegation traveling to Tokyo, Japan for a unique cultural immersion experience.

A Top-5 awardee of The Grant

LTPO, UP hail Taiwan-Philippines friendship

THE LongTan Philharmonic Orchestra (LTPO) from Taoyuan, Taiwan and the University of the Philippines Concert Chorus (UPCC) came together through music to celebrate the enduring friendship between two republics in East Asia. The “Taiwanihan: An Encore” cultural concert was held at the UP Diliman Music Hall on October 10. Supported by honorary representatives of the Overseas Community Affairs Council (OCAC)

of Taiwan in the Philippines, the event featured a captivating blend of Taiwanese and Filipino compositions: from the Filipino classic Anak , to Teresa Teng’s timeless songs and Hakka Variations. The UP Concert Chorus enriched the program with Filipino folk medleys while the finale, The Moon Represents My Heart, united both groups and the 250-member audience in a heartfelt sing-along. Representative Wallace M. G.

Chow of the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in the Philippines praised the collaboration as “a meaningful expression of harmony and shared values.” He noted that the concert coincided with R.O.C. (Taiwan)’s National Day, symbolizing a celebration of friendship and cultural connection.

The orchestra, led by Ambassador Vanessa Yea-Ping Shih as advisor and Conductor Hung-Yu Chang, performed alongside the UPCC un-

der the guidance of Professor Janet Sabas-Aracama and Dean Ma. Patricia Brillantes-Silvestre, with strong support from visiting professor Eing Ming-Wu and the local Taiwanese community.

The evening concluded with an exchange of tokens of appreciation between UP and the organizers, reaffirming a shared commitment to strengthening cultural and educational ties between Taiwan and the Philippines.

Int’l hospitality students complete cross-cultural immersion in Thailand

FOURTEEN future Filipino hoteliers joined more than 100 fellow aspirants from 17 nationalities in celebration of global unity, diversity, and cross-cultural understanding at the recently concluded International Summer Programme 2025 in Bangkok, Thailand. The eight-day event welcomed students from the partner educational institutions of host school Silpakorn University International College (SUIC)—a leading Thai university focusing on preserving national arts.

Among the participants, SUIC specifically invited De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde (DLS-CSB) in Manila. The delegation consisted of its School of Hotel, Restaurant and Institution Management

(SHRIM) educator Dr. Lhoree Valerio and a selection of International Hospitality Management (IHM)-Vatel Manila learners as part of the academic and internationalization initiatives of the two institutions. Recently, under the leadership of President and Dean Dr. Sompid Kattiyapikul, SUIC welcomed the delegations of international guests. Dubbed “The Essence of Thainess Course,” the initiative combined lectures, industry visits, and cultural immersion activities designed to enhance the global exposure, intercultural competence, and industry knowledge of the students. The opening session, which featured a showcase of national costumes and iconic cultural

objects, was facilitated by SUIC Deputy Dean for Planning and Development Dr. Sudawadee Chanpiwat and her team. Hands-on lectures and workshops were facilitated by industry experts and seasoned academicians: Prof. Rattanapong Kongcharoen on Thai florals, Dr. Netchanok Riddhagni on cultural heritage, Dr. Thanya Lunchaprasith on Thai beliefs, as well as Michelin-star Ban Ya Thai Restaurant owner Tanisa Amatayakul Somraiking and Dr. Papangkorn Kongmanwatana on Thai Cuisine. Vatel Thailand Deputy Director Robert McKenzie spearheaded the discussion on intercultural communication, whereas Professor Nanpaskorn Lumpakorn and fashion brand Pava Founder

Pavarisa Phenjati provided a comprehensive overview of Thai design and brand identity, respectively.

Among the program’s highlights was the Thai local studies excursion around the famous hotspots across the country, which included the historic city of Ayutthaya—a World Heritage Site of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Office or UNESCO.

While donning traditional Thai costumes, the student-envoys explored the former capital of the Siamese Kingdom from the 14th to the 18th centuries. It now serves as an extensive

cal site on the history, diplomacy, and commerce of old

Singapore’s security and economic success are tied to a strong, cohesive and effective regional bloc, which we see as vital for navigating global uncertainties while preserving Southeast Asia’s strategic autonomy. We strongly support initiatives l ike the upgrade of the Asean Trade in Goods Agreement, the Digital Economy Framework Agreement, and the Asean Power Grid which drives deeper integration to make the region more competitive and resilient.

Asean centrality matters now more than ever. We must double down on integration of the region and work with like-minded partners to keep it open, inclusive, and forward-looking. This convening power allows the region to set the agenda—not just react to it.

As the Philippines prepares to assume the ASEAN chairship in 2026, Singapore stands ready to lend full support. The region is entering a new chapter, with the admission of Timor Leste as the newest member in October 2025. By strengthening ASEAN’s unity and resilience, we ensure it remains not just a regional platform but a strategic force for stability, progress and growth.

With about 200,000 working and living in your country, how is the embassy positioning new opportunities for Filipino talent in Singapore’s evolving workforce?

Our strong people-to-people ties remain the cornerstone of our bilateral relationship. The 200,000 Filipinos living and working in Singapore make vital contributions across various sectors including healthcare, technology and professional services. They enrich our society with their warmth, talent and strong sense of community.

We will always be deeply grateful to the Filipino healthcare and frontline workers who stood by us during t he Covid-19 pandemic. Singapore is firmly committed to safeguarding their rights and wellbeing. We want to be the best second home for overseas Filipino workers. At the same time, Singapore continues to support the Philippines in strengthening its pool of skilled professionals. The MOU on healthcare enables structured exchanges and upskilling opportunities.

How is the embassy deepening cultural understanding and educational linkages in 2025 and beyond?

We take pride in bringing a taste of Singapore to Manila—sometimes, literally.

At this year’s National Day Reception, in celebration of 60 years of Singapore’s independence, our guests enjoyed Singaporean dishes such as chicken rice, rojak and laksa as well as Tiger Beer! Food, after all, is diplomacy of the most delicious kind.

The embassy also champions cultural exchange through music and the arts. In March 2025, our “String and Keys: A Singapore-Philippines Serenade” concert to mark International Women’s Day featured Singaporean pianist Dr. See Ning Hui alongside 12-year-old Filipino harpist Vien Ignacio who used to train in Singapore.

Last year, in commemoration of the 55th anniversary of Singapore-Philippines relations, we partnered with the Philippine International Jazz Festival

and organized the “Colours of Jazz” concert, featuring Singaporean jazz vocalist Michelle Poh and the Manila Philharmonic Orchestra.

The embassy also supports visual arts collaborations, such as the “Chances of Contact: Contemporary Prints from the Philippines and Singapore” exhibition, held from August to October 2024 in collaboration with Singapore’s STPI print gallery and the Metropolitan Museum of Manila. This exhibition showcased landmark works by 16 artists from both countries. In education, Singapore continues to open doors for Filipino youth. This year, we welcomed 21 Filipino scholars to study in Singapore under the Asean Scholarship offered by the Singapore Ministry of Education.

We also strengthen bilateral ties through youth expedition projects. Student groups from Singapore universities and polytechnics regularly engage in community and cultural projects in the Philippines. From supporting underprivileged children and young women in Manila, funding water systems in Iloilo to cultural e xchanges in Davao, these efforts nurture lifelong friendships, empathy and leadership.

Similarly, the Digital Leadership Programme which we launched in April 2025, developed by the National University of Singapore with Temasek Foundation funding, supports the Philippine Civil Service Commission’s digital transformation agenda and will benefit over 10,000 Philippine officials.

The embassy also regularly invites Philippine officials to attend a wide variety of specialized courses under the Singapore Cooperation Programme Training Award, including on finance, public administration, and economic development. Through these courses, we hope to share our development experiences and foster mutual learning. As of June 2025, more than 4,300 Philippine officials have participated in the SCP.

On a lighter note, what would be your fondest experience in the Philippines? Is there a memento or keepsake that you will most cherish from your stay?

Some of my fondest memories in the Philippines are about discovery, of its people, textures and pulse. I visited Divisoria recently and was captivated by the energy and the cadence of commerce. To me it represented the heartbeat of Manila’s entrepreneurial spirit.

I am also drawn to the remarkable weaving traditions here in the Philippines, from the Inabel weavers of Ilocos, to the T’boli dreamweavers of Lake Sebu and the Yakan artisans of Basilan. I have started collecting these precious weaves which are truly a living heritage. Each piece reflects patience, skill and imagination, and together, the threads tell the story of this diverse and beautiful nation. They remind me that creativity and resilience are among the Philippines’ greatest natural resources, and that there is so much here to admire, protect and celebrate.

Serving as Singapore’s ambassador to the Philippines has been an extraordinary privilege, and a journey of friendship, learning and discovery. This posting constantly reminds me how closely connected we are, and how much promise our partnership holds for the future. Excited to do more!

is Monica Castillo who is a former MEXT or Japanese government scholar who completed her master’s degree at the Faculty of Fine ArtsGlobal Art Practice at Tokyo University of the Arts.

archaeologi-

Thailand.

AMBASSADOR Constance See at the crater lake of Mount Pinatubo in January 2025

AMBASSADOR Kazuya Endo, Binibining Pilipinas International 2024 Myrna Esguerra and Madame Akiko Endo

MADAME Endo and Esguerra in a traditional tea ceremony

THE couple with First Lady Louise AranetaMarcos (left) at The Grand by Fashion Aid Philippines awarding ceremony

THE ambassador (right), with Japan Information and Culture Center (JICC) Director Shigehiro Matsuda, Trade Secretary Cristina Aldeguer-Roque (third and fourth from left), Fashion Aid Philippines officials and awardees of Japan's youth exchange program.

AMBASSADOR Dato’ Malik Melvin Castelino of Malaysia

THE LongTan Philharmonic Orchestra performs beloved Taiwanese and Filipino pieces. MEMBERS of the University of the Philippines Concert Chorus perform a medley of Filipino folk songs.

&Expats

New Global Multidimensional Poverty Index Report: 80% of world’s poor live in regions exposed to climate hazards

NEARLY eight in 10 people living in multidimensional poverty—or 887 million of the 1.1 billion globally—are directly exposed to climate hazards such as extreme heat, flooding, drought, or air pollution, according to a new report released by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the Oxford Poverty and Human Initiative (OPHI) at the University of Oxford.

The 2025 Global Multidimensional Poverty Index report, “Overlapping Hardships: Poverty and Climate Hazards,” covers 109 countries and territories representing 6.3 billion people and provides updated MPI estimates for 13 countries that include Azerbaijan, Bangladesh, Bolivia, Jordan, Kyrgyzstan, Lao PDR, Lesotho, Mexico, Nauru, Niger, Peru, Senegal, and Vanuatu.

The report estimates that in East Asia and the Pacific, 104 million people were living in multidimensional poverty in 2023, representing about 9 percent of the global multidimensionally poor population.

Crucially, the report also finds that multidimensional poverty is higher than monetary poverty in 63 out of 105 countries where both measures are available, underscoring that many people living above the monetary poverty line still face significant deprivations that affect their well-being.

The most recent publicly available survey data used for the Philippines’ MPI estimation refer to 2022. Based on these estimates, 3.9 percent of the population (4.47 million Filipinos in 2023) are multidimensionally poor, while an additional 5.2 percent (6.02 million Filipinos) are classified as vulnerable to multidimensional poverty.

The largest contributions to the country’s MPI come from deprivations in standard of living (42.7 percent), followed by education (32.7 percent) and health (24.7 percent).

The report, released ahead of the Conference of Parties or COP30 climate summit in Brazil, presents new evidence that the climate crisis is reshaping global poverty. By overlaying climate hazard data with multidimensional poverty data for the first time, the findings reveal a world where poverty is not just a standalone socioeconomic issue, but one deeply interlinked with planetary pressures and instability.

Exposure to climate hazards likely exacerbates the daily challenges faced by people living in poverty, reinforcing and deepening their disadvantages. The report finds that among those assessed to be living in acute multidimensional poverty—spanning health, education, and living standards—an overwhelming 651 million endure two or more climate hazards, while 309 million face three or four hazards simultaneously.

“Our new research shows that, to address global poverty and create a more stable world for everyone, we must confront the climate risks endangering nearly 900 million poor people,” said UNDP Acting Administrator Haoliang Xu. “When world leaders meet in Brazil for the COP30 Climate Conference next month, their national climate pledges must revitalize the stagnating development progress that threatens to leave the world’s poorest people behind.”

Burden of concurrent poverty and climate hazards

THE findings emphasize that poor people globally are often confronting multiple concurrent environmental challenges, rather than a single one in isolation: n Of the 887 million poor people exposed to at least one climate hazard, 651 million face

two or more concurrent hazards.

n Alarmingly, 309 million poor people live in regions exposed to three or four overlapping climate hazards while experiencing acute multidimensional poverty. These individuals face a “triple or quadruple burden,” often possessing limited assets and minimal access to social protection systems, amplifying negative effects of the shocks.

n Individually, the most widespread hazards affecting poor people globally are high heat (608 million) and air pollution (577 million). Flood-prone regions are home to 465 million poor people, while 207 million live in areas affected by drought.

“This report shows where the climate crisis and poverty are notably converging,” said co-author Sabina Alkire who is the director of the Oxford Poverty and Human Development Initiative. “Understanding where the planet is under greatest strain and where people face additional burdens created by climate challenges is essential to creating mutually reinforcing development strategies that put humanity at the centre of climate action.”

Geographic and economic hotspots

THE burden of exposure is distributed unevenly across regions and income groups:

n South Asia and Sub-Saharan Africa are identified as global hotspots for these compounded hardships, accounting for the largest numbers of poor people living in regions affected by climate hazards (380 million and 344 million respectively).

n In East Asia and the Pacific, 56.8 percent of poor people are exposed to floods, and over half to air pollution.

n In South Asia, the exposure is nearly universal; fully 99.1 percent of poor people in the region are exposed to one or more climate shocks (380 million people), with 91.6 percent (351 million) facing two or more—much higher than any other world region. Despite making momentous and historic strides in poverty reduction, South Asia must also accelerate climate action.

n Across income groups, lowermiddle-income countries bear the greatest burden of exposure of poor people to climate hazards, both in terms of absolute number and high proportion. About 548 million poor people in lower-middleincome countries are estimated to be exposed to at least one climate hazard, representing 61.8 percent of global poor people who are exposed to any climate hazard. Critically, over 470 million poor people in lower-middle-income countries confront two or more, concurrent climate hazards simultaneously.

“The burdens identified are not limited to the present, but are expected to intensify in the future,” said Director Pedro Conceição of the UNDP’s Human Development Report Office.

Analysis of temperature projection data reveals that countries with higher current levels of multidimensional poverty are predicted to experience the greatest increases in temperatures by the end of this century.

These findings highlight the urgent need for global action to address the unequal burden of climate-related hazards on people living in multidimensional poverty. Confronting these overlapping risks requires moving from recognition to action, emphasizing the need for climate-resilient poverty reduction strategies, strengthened local capacities for adaptation, and scaled international redistribution and cooperative finance mechanisms.

Israeli deputy FM visits Manila and begins historic Pacific tour

ISRAEL’S Deputy Foreign Minister Sharren Haskel kicked off a landmark diplomatic tour of the Pacific region, starting with the Philippines and continuing to Fiji, Papua New Guinea, and New Zealand.

Her six-day journey includes official state visits to Fiji and Papua New Guinea.

During her visit to Manila, the

deputy foreign minister spoke about the longstanding ties between Israel and the Philippines, as she cited shared values, development coopera-

tion, and historical connections. She expressed deep gratitude for the Philippines’ support of Jewish refugees in World War II.

“The Filipino people offered shelter to Jews during one of history’s darkest times. We will forever remember that,” she said.

Haskel also recognized the Filipino community and overseas workers in Israel, describing its members as vital contributors to the country’s society.

“They are known for their care, hard work, and dedication,” and shared that cultural events in Israel often celebrate this friendship.

She recalled her experience at Is-

rael’s Feast of the Tabernacle, where a Filipino delegation participated in traditional celebrations: “It was a beautiful moment that reflected the deep connection and shared faith between our nations.”

Turning to current regional issues, the deputy foreign minister addressed the humanitarian situation in Gaza and ceasefire violations by Hamas. She emphasized Israel’s pursuit of peace through diplomatic efforts, while calling for the disarmament of militant groups and greater international accountability.

“Peace is only possible if Hamas disarms and the international community holds them accountable,” she noted. The Israeli official also acknowledged the impact of the October 7 attacks on foreign nationals—including Filipino workers—and noted Israel’s ongoing support for victims through medical, psychological, and financial assistance.

As the visit concluded, she spoke about the importance of strengthening ties across the Pacific. She affirmed that “Filipino professionals in Israel, whether in caregiving, hospitality, or other sectors, are part of our extended family.”

The short stay concluded with a dinner with the Jewish community in the Philippines, where discussions centered on the importance of education in strengthening the community’s future.

Participants shared insights on access to learning, cultural preservation, and opportunities for youth development within the local Jewish population.

Phil. property sector still competitive; cites opportunities in retail & tourism

THE British Chamber of Commerce Philippines (BCCP) held its annual Property Matters conference: “Shaping Spaces, Strengthening Sectors” late in September.

BCCP Executive Vice Chair

Chris Nelson noted that “the real estate sector remains robust, and key reforms such as the recently passed 99-year lease for foreign investors will only assist in further growth.”

Nelson said that the chamber looks forward to the law’s implementing rules and regulations, as this signals “how the Philippine market is being further liberalized which is key in attracting more long-term investments.”

Colliers Philippines Head of Research Joey Bondoc identified key enablers for positive growth in the local real estate sector such

as the country’s strong gross domestic product performance; steady overseas Filipino workers’ remittances; rising demand for upscale, luxury, and leisureoriented projects; and the shift to suburban living and geographic diversification.

Bondoc noted that “the residential market received a stronger demand outside…Metro Manila. Even if we see slower arrivals from foreigners and tourists, the industrial segment continues to grow [with the production of electric vehicles, and] semiconductors…opening factories here in the Philippines.”

Despite increasing tariffs, he said the country’s manufacturing sector remains competitive: “Foreign brands are really banking on the Philippines being a primarily consumption-driven economy.”

Meanwhile, JLL Philippines Country Head Joey Radovan shared several case studies that the Philippines could use as benchmarks, which highlighted the value of leveraging the expertise of the United Kingdom to advance public-private partnerships.

Radovan outlined key strategies such as promoting inclusive housing and mobility, developing smart cities and innovation hubs, undertaking large-scale mixed-use urban projects, and pursuing heritage-led urban regeneration initiatives.

Opportunities in the real estate sector continue to underscore the Philippines’ regional competitiveness. Ayala Land Logistics Holdings Corp.’s (ALLHC) Head of Industrial Parks and Real Estate Logistics Gabriel T. Sioson highlighted the growing presence of industrial hubs in the Luzon

Economic Corridor and Northern Mindanao, illustrating how companies are strategically expanding and positioning themselves across various markets nationwide.

For his part, Clark Development Corporation’s AVP for Business Development Thelma C. Ocampo noted that while the exit of Philippine Offshore Gaming Operations or POGOs created vacancies, it also opened new opportunities for growth in tourism infrastructure and the hotel industry.

The ninth edition of the event was organized in partnership with Ayala Land Logistics Holdings Corp. and Jones Lang Lasalle (JLL) Philippines, with major sponsor AFC SME Financing and minor sponsor KPMG in the Philippines, and BusinessMirror as media partner.

New Zealand eGates now open for Philippine ePassport holders

FILIPINO travellers can now enjoy faster and easier airport processing in New Zealand, as Philippine ePassports holders aged 10 and above are eligible to use its automated eGates for both arrivals and departures nationwide.

This development is part of New Zealand Customs’ expansion of eGate eligibility to 11 more countries and territories, helping further digitize border processing. Alongside the Philippines, travellers from Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Mexico, Hong Kong, Malaysia, Taiwan, Thailand, Seychelles, and San Marino can now access the eGates.

The Customs Department recently carried out a series of trials in conjunction with Immigration New Zealand. This ensured that ePassports from these countries met the Oceanic country’s strict border security and technological requirements.

With this update, the total number of countries and territories eligible to use New Zealand’s eGates is now at 59, as efforts continue to enable more later this year.

Last year, more than 31,000 visitors from the Philippines travelled to New Zealand, and this number continues to grow, according to the latter’s embassy.

With eGates now available since September 13, arriving at New Zealand airports is now easier and faster for them.

Customs Group Manager for Border Operations Dana McDonald said these changes help ensure more international travellers enjoy a self-service route through arrivals and departures at New Zealand airports: “Together with completing a digital New Zealand Traveller Declaration, using eGates can help travelers reduce screening times, making it easier and faster to move through border security.” eGates use

essary checks within seconds, enabling Customs frontline officers to focus on high-risk travellers and baggage. Immigration New Zealand’s Director Border Sarah Clifford agreed that opening eGates to more eligible passport holders is a significant step in making travel to New Zealand smoother: “This expansion makes genuine travel easier, while maintaining the

tegrity of our border.” Filipino travellers

and

assport need to complete

DEPUTY Minister Sharren Haskel (left) and Ambassador Dana Kursh

Japan PM, Pres. Marcos hold summit meeting

PRIME Minister Sanae Takaichi met with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. for the JapanPhilippines Summit Meeting on October 26.

The two leaders’ 20-minute dialogue coincided with Takaichi’s Malaysia visit to attend the Aseanrelated summit meetings.

The prime minister expressed her pleasure to hold a meeting with Marcos Jr. soon after assuming office. She stated her desire to further strengthen relations with the Philippines as a strategic partner, toward realizing a Free and Open Indo-Pacific.

For his part, the Chief Executive congratulated the prime minister on her appointment, and conveyed his vision of reinforcing relations between their countries on the occasion of the 70th anniversary of the normalization of diplomatic relations.

On security cooperation, both leaders welcomed that Japan and the Philippines reached an agreement in principle on an Acquisition and Cross-Servicing Agreement or

AMBASSADOR Mohamed Obaid Salem Al Zaabi of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) was recognized as an “Ambassador of Goodwill for Peace” by the United Nations Association of the Philippines (UNAP) during the 80th anniversary celebrations of the UN and the Outstanding Humanitarian Awards Night on October 24. According to UAE’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the honor distinguishes Al Zaabi’s remarkable contributions in strengthening relations with the Philippines, as well as his efforts in supporting humanitarian and development initiatives, which “reflect the vision of the late founding father Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, who was a leading figure in humanitarian work.” This vision, the ministry said, has been sustained and advanced by UAE’s president Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan by establishing humanitarian work as a cornerstone for the country’s foreign policy. It also reflects the values of tolerance and co-existence, which represent pil-

ACSA. They also lauded the Reciprocal Access Agreement or RAA’s entry into force in September this year. It was first applied this month during the joint exercise and the transport of support goods following the Cebu earthquake.

They also tackled the progress of cooperation through the Official Security Assistance, or OSA.

The two leaders concurred on continuing the work to strengthen the foundation for security cooperation that contributes to the peace and stability of the Philippines and the region.

On the economic front, Takaichi conveyed Japan's plans on leveraging its strengths to promote the resilience of the Philippine's economy and infrastructure. She also stated her country’s intention to contribute to local food security through the provision of equipment for postharvest rice processing.

In turn, Marcos Jr. expressed his gratitude for Japan’s cooperation through its official development assistance, as he articulated his expectations to bolster cooperation not only in ODA but also across a wide range of fields.

Further, the prime minister mentioned the signing of the memorandum on comprehensive energy cooperation between both countries at the Asia Zero Emission Community Ministerial Meeting this October. She conveyed Japan’s intention to advance civil nuclear cooperation,

and to cooperate toward AZEC’s success next year.

2026 will mark the 70th year of the normalization of diplomatic relations as the Philippines will assume the Asean Chairship. Taking this into account, both leaders concurred on continuing close coordination in addressing various international challenges, including the situation in the West Philippine Sea/South China Sea, responses to North Korea encompassing nuclear and missile issues, concerns on abductions, the situations in Myanmar as well as the Cambodia-Thailand border areas.

lars of peace and shared prosperity, and reaffirm the Emirates’ steadfast commitment to supporting humanitarian efforts and promoting international solidarity. In this regard, the UAE con -

tinues to carry out initiatives, as well as provide relief and development aid to the Filipino people in recent years through the dispatch of planes carrying aid, including medical and humanitarian

sions to those impacted by disasters and crises.

“These efforts reflect the UAE’s steadfast commitment to supporting people in times of need,” the ministry said.

PRESIDENT Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has reaffirmed the Philippines’ commitment to fortifying ties with the United Kingdom (UK) and the Kingdom of Belgium as he welcomed their new ambassadors.

In separate ceremonies at Malacañan Palace, Marcos Jr. received the credentials of British envoy Sarah Hulton QBE and Belgian ambassador Vladislava Iordanova.

According to Presidential Communications Office’s (PCO) news release, the President told Hulton that the Philippines considers the UK as its “steadfast partner.”

“Relations between the UK and the Philippines have certainly stood the test of time, and have just grown stronger and deeper as years go on,” he said, as quoted by the PCO.

For her part, Hulton said she looks forward to working with the current administration in advancing growth, climate, and security priorities.

She also expressed condolences for the victims of recent natural disasters in the Philippines and reaffirmed the UK’s support for humanitarian efforts.

“It is a great honor that I return to the Philippines after nearly 20 years, with a deep appreciation for our enduring friendship between our countries,” Hulton stated.

The Philippines and the UK established diplomatic relations on July 4, 1946.

Meanwhile, the Chief Executive expressed confidence that bilateral relations between the Philippines and Belgium would deepen under Iordanova’s watch.

“Our two countries have enjoyed a long time of warm and cordial relations, which I hope will continue and strengthen at every level: [from people-to-people, all the way to government-to-government],” he told Belgium’s head of mission, as reported by the PCO. “I look forward to the work we will do to bring our countries closer together.”

Iordanova assured Marcos of her commitment to enhancing the longstanding friendship and cooperation between the two nations.

She reaffirmed the strong and historic ties between Belgium and the Philippines—”two like-minded partners committed to multilateralism, peace, sustainability and inclusive growth,” according to the Belgian Embassy. As Belgium and the Philippines prepare to celebrate 80 years of diplomatic relations in 2026, both countries look forward to deepening cooperation on shared priorities. Ruth Abbey Gita-Carlos/PNA

JAPANESE prime minister Sanae Takaichi and President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. CABINET PUBLIC AFFAIRS OFFICE

AMBASSADOR Mohamed Obaid Salem Al Zaabi (third from right)

PRESIDENT Marcos and then-UK’s ambassador-designate Sarah Hulton FB: BRITISH EMBASSY MANILA

THE Chief Executive with Belgian Head of Mission to Manila Vladislava Iordanova FB: EMBASSY OF THE KINGDOM OF BELGIUM IN MANILA